Gastromark?
Ferumoxsil Oral Suspension
Gastromark ferumoxsil oral suspension is an FDA approved superparamagnetic iron oxide (SPIO), oral gastrointestinal (GI) agent used in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). It is used to enhance the delineation of the bowel in adults to distinguish it from organs and tissues that are adjacent to the upper regions of the GI tract. On T1- and T2-weighted images, the high T1- and T2-relaxivity helps decrease signal intensity and reduce motion artifact,1, 2, 3 and aids in visualization of other abdominal structures and physiology.
Gastromark contrast agent fills the stomach and small intestine by 30 to 45 minutes after ingestion and passes distally to the large intestine by 4 to 7 hours after ingestion. Its usefulness in the lower GI tract and retroperitoneal region is limited by transit time and dilution. Used within the approved indication, Gastromark contrast agent may be useful in procedures where a homogeneous low signal intensity of the bowel is desired in order to clearly visualize the loops of the bowel and the surrounding region.2, 3
1Hahn P, et al. First Clinical Trial of a New Superparamagnetic Iron Oxide for Use as an Oral Gastrointestinal Contrast Agent in MR Imaging. Radiology 1990 175: 695-700.
2Haldemann Heusler RC, et al. Oral Superparamagnetic Contrast Agent (Ferumoxsil): Tolerance and Efficacy in MR Imaging of Gynecologic Diseases. Journal Magnetic Resonance Imaging 1995 4: 385-391.
3Marccioni F, et al. MR Imaging in patients with Crohn Disease: Value of T2- versus T1-weighted Gadolinium-enhanced MR Sequences with Use of an Oral Superparamagnetic Contrast Agent. Radiology 2006 238: 517-530.
Important Safety Information
Gastromark ferumoxsil oral suspensiion is contraindicated in patients with known or suspected intestinal perforation or obstruction or in patients with known allergy to its active or inactive ingredients. The most commonly noted adverse events were abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, which can be associated with aspiration and diarrhea. Precautions should be taken to avoid aspiration. Use link to package insert for full prescribing information.
