Some patients have a history of allergy to intravenous contrast agents. In patients with a documented allergy, or an allergic diathesis, premedication has been shown to decrease the incidence and/or severity of contrast allergic reactions. The following are the American College of Radiology recommended premedication regimens for contrast allergic patients.

• Oral corticosteroid/antihistamine: prednisone 50 mg orally at 13, 7 and 1 hour before the procedure plus diphenhydramine 50 mg intramuscularly or by mouth 1 hour prior to contrast administration.

• Oral corticosteroid alone: methylprednisolone 32 mg by mouth 12 and 2 hours before procedure.

• Intravenous corticosteroid/antihistamine: hydrocortisone 200 mg intravenously at 13, 7 and 1 hour before the procedure plus diphenhydramine 50 mg intramuscularly 1 hour prior to contrast administration. Since oral administration of steroids is preferable to intravascular, this regimen is reserved for patients who cannot take medications by mouth.

We are happy to work with you to assure your patient receives the correct premedication regimen. If you have any questions regarding this information, please contact us: 352-597-0016

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