Clariscan Side Effects

Generic name: gadoterate meglumine

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Dec 6, 2024.

Note: This document provides detailed information about Clariscan Side Effects associated with gadoterate meglumine. Some dosage forms listed on this page may not apply specifically to the brand name Clariscan.

Applies to gadoterate meglumine: intravenous solution.

Important warnings This medicine can cause some serious health issues

Intravenous route (solution)

Gadolinium-based contrast agents (GBCAs) increase the risk for nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF) among patients with impaired elimination of the drugs.

Avoid use of GBCAs in these patients unless the diagnostic information is essential and not available with noncontrasted MRI or other modalities.

NSF may result in fatal or debilitating fibrosis affecting the skin, muscle, and internal organs.

The risk for NSF appears highest among patients with chronic, severe kidney disease (GFR less than 30 mL/min/1.73m(2)), or acute kidney injury.

Screen patients for acute kidney injury and other conditions that may reduce renal function.

For patients at risk for chronically reduced renal function (eg, older than 60 years, hypertension, diabetes), estimate the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) through laboratory testing.

Serious side effects of Clariscan

Along with its needed effects, gadoterate meglumine (the active ingredient contained in Clariscan) may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor or nurse immediately if any of the following side effects occur while taking gadoterate meglumine:

Rare side effects

• blurred vision
• dizziness
• fast, irregular, pounding, or racing heartbeat or pulse
• headache
• nervousness
• pounding in the ears
• slow or fast heartbeat

Incidence not known

• areas of the skin that turned red or dark or feel tight
• bluish color of the fingernails, lips, skin, palms, or nail beds
• bone pain in the hips or ribs
• burning, dry, or itching eyes
• change in consciousness
• chest pain or discomfort
• cough
• decreased or uncontrolled urination
• difficulty with swallowing
• discharge or excessive tearing
• fainting
• fever
• hives or welts, itching, skin rash
• increased sweating
• lack or loss of strength
• large, hive-like swelling on the face, eyelids, lips, tongue, throat, hands, legs, feet, or sex organs
• lightheadedness, dizziness, or fainting
• loss of consciousness
• muscle weakness
• no blood pressure or pulse
• no breathing
• numbness, tingling, pain, or weakness in the hands or feet
• paralysis or severe weakness of the legs
• puffiness or swelling of the eyelids or around the eyes, face, lips, or tongue
• redness of the skin
• redness, pain, or swelling of the eye, eyelid, or inner lining of the eyelid
• shakiness in the legs, arms, hands, or feet
• skin that burns or itches, swells, scales, or hardens
• stiff joints or muscles
• stopping of the heart
• trembling or shaking of the hands or feet
• trouble moving your arms or legs
• uncontrolled bowel movements
• uncontrolled movements of the body
• unusual tiredness or weakness

Other side effects of Clariscan

Some side effects of gadoterate meglumine may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.

Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

Rare side effects

• bleeding, blistering, burning, coldness, discoloration of the skin, feeling of pressure, hives, infection, inflammation, itching, lumps, numbness, pain, rash, redness, scarring, soreness, stinging, swelling, tenderness, tingling, ulceration, or warmth at the injection site
• burning, crawling, itching, numbness, prickling, "pins and needles", or tingling feelings
• change in taste
• discomfort in the throat
• fear
• loss of taste
• nausea
• pain in the arms or legs
• sleepiness or unusual drowsiness
• vomiting

Incidence not known

• transient, mild, pleasant aromatic odor

Further information

Clariscan side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Note: Medication side effects may be underreported. If you are experiencing side effects that are not listed, submit a report to the FDA by following this guide.

Medical Disclaimer