Gadobenate dimeglumine

Gadobenate dimeglumine is a gadolinium-based contrast agent (GBCA) used in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to enhance the quality of the images. It is marketed under the brand name MultiHance. Gadobenate dimeglumine is particularly useful in imaging the central nervous system, liver, and heart.

Chemical Composition

Gadobenate dimeglumine is a complex of gadolinium with the ligand BOPTA (benzyloxypropionictetraacetate). The chemical formula is C22H28GdN3O11, and it has a molecular weight of 753.72 g/mol.

Mechanism of Action

Gadobenate dimeglumine works by shortening the relaxation times of protons in its vicinity, which enhances the contrast of the images produced by MRI. The gadolinium ion (Gd3+) is highly paramagnetic, making it effective in altering the magnetic properties of nearby water molecules.

Clinical Uses

Gadobenate dimeglumine is used in various types of MRI scans, including:

• Brain and spinal cord imaging
• Liver imaging
• Cardiac imaging
• Breast imaging

Safety and Side Effects

Like other GBCAs, gadobenate dimeglumine is generally well-tolerated, but it can cause side effects in some patients. Common side effects include nausea, headache, and dizziness. Rare but serious side effects include nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF) in patients with severe kidney impairment.

Administration

Gadobenate dimeglumine is administered intravenously. The dosage depends on the type of imaging being performed and the patient's body weight.

Related Pages

• Magnetic resonance imaging
• Gadolinium-based contrast agent
• Nephrogenic systemic fibrosis
• Central nervous system
• Liver
• Heart