Perflutren Lipid Microsphere (By injection)
per-FLOO-tren LIP-id MYE-kroe-sfeer
Used during an echocardiogram to help show the inside of your heart.
Drug classes
Radiological Non-Ionic Contrast Media (About this – PubMed Health)
Uses
Uses of This Medicine
Perflutren lipid microsphere preparation is an ultrasound contrast agent. Ultrasound contrast agents are used to help provide a clear picture during ultrasound. Ultrasound is a special kind of diagnostic procedure. It uses high-frequency sound waves to create images or “pictures” of certain areas inside the body. The sound waves produced by the ultrasound equipment can be reflected (bounced off) by different parts of the body, like for example, the heart. As the sound waves return they are electronically converted into images on a television screen. Unlike x-rays, ultrasound does not involve ionizing radiation.
The perflutren lipid microspheres preparation contains very small gas-filled lipid microspheres that reflect the sound waves and help create a better picture. The lipid microsphere preparation is given by injection into a vein before ultrasound to help diagnose problems of the heart.
This medicine is to be given only by or under the direct supervision of a doctor with specialized training in ultrasound procedures.
Other uses (PubMed Health)
How To Use
Injectable
Your doctor will prescribe your dose and schedule. This medicine is given through a needle placed in a vein.
A nurse or other health provider will give you this medicine.
Drugs and Foods to Avoid
Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.
When Not To Use
This medicine is not right for everyone. You should not receive it if you had an allergic reaction to perflutren lipid microsphere.
Warnings
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have a congenital heart defect or heart or lung condition, such as heart failure, heart rhythm problems, a history of heart attack, or lung disease.
This medicine could cause changes to your heart rhythm.
Possible side effects
Summary More details
Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:
Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
Chest pain or shortness of breath
Fast, slow, or uneven heartbeat
Lightheadedness or fainting
If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:
Dizziness or headache
Pain, itching, burning, swelling, or a lump under your skin where the needle is placed
Warmth or redness in your face, neck, arms, or upper chest
If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
More side effects of this drug
Brand names include
Definity
There may be other brand names for this medicine.