Lipiodol Ultra Fluid 480 mg I/mL

Lipiodol Ultra Fluid 480 mg I/mL is an iodinated oil-based contrast medium used by qualified healthcare professionals in selected diagnostic and interventional radiology procedures. It contains ethyl esters of iodized fatty acids of poppy seed oil, providing an iodine concentration of 480 mg/mL. The product is supplied as a solution for injection and is designed for specialist medical use under appropriate clinical and radiological supervision.

Lipiodol Ultra Fluid is manufactured by Guerbet, a company specializing in medical imaging products and solutions. Because approved indications can differ between countries, healthcare professionals should always consult the locally approved prescribing information before using the product.

What Is Lipiodol Ultra Fluid?

Lipiodol Ultra Fluid is an oil-soluble iodinated contrast medium. Unlike conventional water-soluble contrast agents, it is based on iodized fatty-acid esters derived from poppy seed oil. Each millilitre contains 480 mg of iodine. The commercial presentation may include a 10 mL glass ampoule, depending on the market.

Its primary role is to help healthcare professionals visualize specific anatomical structures, lesions, vessels, or pathways during imaging and image-guided procedures. Iodine is useful in radiology because it interacts with X-rays, allowing areas containing the contrast medium to be distinguished from surrounding tissues.

Lipiodol Ultra Fluid has been used for many years in diagnostic radiology and has also become important in selected interventional radiology applications. Depending on the country and approved labeling, applications may include lymphography, hysterosalpingography, selected examinations of ducts and fistulae, and certain liver-directed interventional procedures.

Lipiodol Ultra Fluid Uses

The approved medical uses of Lipiodol Ultra Fluid depend on the country, regulatory authorization, and the specific clinical situation. Documented uses in different markets include:

• Diagnostic radiology, where the product can help visualize particular anatomical structures.
• Lymphography, for imaging the lymphatic system.
• Hysterosalpingography (HSG), an imaging examination used to evaluate the uterine cavity and fallopian tubes in appropriate patients.
• Selected examinations involving ducts, sinuses, fistulae, and related anatomical structures.
• Certain interventional radiology procedures involving the liver, including selected procedures for hepatocellular carcinoma where Lipiodol may act as a radiological visualizer and, in some techniques, as a carrier for therapeutic agents.
• Selected embolization procedures where its radiopaque properties can help healthcare professionals visualize the procedure.

The exact indication should always be confirmed against the product information approved in the country where the medicine is being used.

Benefits of Lipiodol Ultra Fluid

Lipiodol Ultra Fluid provides several clinically useful properties in specialist imaging and interventional procedures.

Helps Improve Visualization

The iodine contained in Lipiodol Ultra Fluid makes the product visible during appropriate X-ray-based imaging. This can help clinicians identify and evaluate selected anatomical structures.

Useful in Specialized Imaging

Its oil-based formulation has made it useful for specific examinations where an iodinated oil contrast medium is clinically appropriate.

Role in Interventional Radiology

In selected liver-directed procedures, Lipiodol Ultra Fluid can help clinicians visualize the distribution of treatment during image-guided intervention. In conventional trans-arterial chemoembolization, it may serve as a contrast agent and drug vehicle, depending on the approved procedure and local labeling.

Established Specialist Application

Lipiodol Ultra Fluid has a long history in diagnostic and interventional radiology. Its use has evolved from diagnostic imaging applications to selected image-guided therapeutic procedures.

How Does Lipiodol Ultra Fluid Work?

Lipiodol Ultra Fluid works primarily through its iodine content and radiopaque properties.

When introduced into the appropriate anatomical area by a trained healthcare professional, the iodine-containing product can absorb X-rays more strongly than many surrounding tissues. This creates contrast on appropriate imaging systems and allows clinicians to visualize the distribution of the product.

In certain interventional oncology procedures, Lipiodol Ultra Fluid may also function as a carrier or visualizer. For example, during conventional trans-arterial chemoembolization (cTACE), it can be mixed with an anticancer drug according to the relevant clinical protocol and can help clinicians visualize treatment distribution.

Because the product is intended for specialist procedures, its administration should only be performed by appropriately trained healthcare professionals using the technique and equipment specified by the applicable prescribing information.

Lipiodol Ultra Fluid Dosage and Administration

Lipiodol Ultra Fluid is not a medicine that patients should self-administer. The amount and method of administration depend on the specific examination or intervention, the anatomical area being investigated, the patient’s clinical circumstances, and the locally approved product information.

Healthcare professionals determine the appropriate administration parameters for each procedure. Patients should never attempt to use Lipiodol Ultra Fluid independently or alter its prescribed use.

Lipiodol Ultra Fluid Side Effects

Like other iodinated contrast products, Lipiodol Ultra Fluid can cause adverse reactions. The severity and likelihood can vary according to the procedure and the individual patient’s medical condition.

Potential reactions may include:

• Hypersensitivity or allergic-type reactions
• Skin reactions
• Changes in thyroid function in susceptible individuals
• Respiratory symptoms, particularly in patients with certain underlying conditions
• Embolic complications associated with unintended migration of the product
• Procedure-related complications depending on the examination or intervention

Serious hypersensitivity reactions can occur and may be life-threatening. Appropriate medical facilities and emergency support should therefore be available whenever the product is administered.

Patients should immediately inform their healthcare team if they develop concerning symptoms during or after a procedure.

Warnings and Precautions

Lipiodol Ultra Fluid requires careful medical assessment before use.

Particular attention may be required in people with:

• Previous hypersensitivity reactions to Lipiodol or iodinated contrast media
• Thyroid disorders, particularly conditions associated with hyperthyroidism
• Asthma or significant respiratory disease
• Cardiovascular or pulmonary problems
• Certain liver conditions when liver-directed intervention is planned
• Conditions that may increase the risk of embolic complications

The product information specifically warns that iodinated contrast media can affect thyroid function in susceptible individuals. The product also carries important administration restrictions, and it must not be used by inappropriate routes.

Pregnancy is particularly important when certain procedures involving Lipiodol are being considered. For example, hysterosalpingography with Lipiodol has specific pregnancy-related contraindications. The treating healthcare professional should therefore be informed about pregnancy or the possibility of pregnancy before the relevant examination.

Drug Interactions and Medical History

Before a procedure involving Lipiodol Ultra Fluid, patients should provide their healthcare professional with a complete medical history and information about medicines they use.

This includes:

• Prescription medicines
• Non-prescription medicines
• Vitamins
• Herbal or nutritional supplements
• Previous reactions to contrast media
• Existing thyroid, liver, kidney, heart, or respiratory conditions

The healthcare team can then determine whether additional precautions, monitoring, or alternative imaging approaches are appropriate.

Storage of Lipiodol Ultra Fluid

Storage requirements should follow the locally approved product information and packaging instructions.

The product information for Lipiodol Ultra Fluid specifies protection from light and storage below 25°C for the referenced presentation. The product should not be used if its appearance has changed, including becoming opaque or dark amber.

Because Lipiodol Ultra Fluid is a specialist injectable product, handling, preparation, administration, and disposal should be performed by authorized healthcare professionals according to applicable institutional and product requirements.

Lipiodol Ultra Fluid Manufacturer

Manufacturer: Guerbet

Guerbet is an international medical imaging company involved in contrast agents, interventional imaging, and related healthcare technologies. Lipiodol Ultra Fluid is one of the company’s established products used in selected diagnostic and interventional radiology applications.

Lipiodol Ultra Fluid Price

The Lipiodol Ultra Fluid price may vary according to the country, supplier, pack size, regulatory status, procurement channel, and healthcare institution. Since this is a specialist prescription product, availability and pricing should be confirmed through an authorized pharmaceutical supplier or healthcare provider.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is Lipiodol Ultra Fluid used for?

Lipiodol Ultra Fluid is an iodinated oil-based contrast medium used in selected diagnostic and interventional radiology procedures. Depending on local approval, applications may include lymphography, hysterosalpingography, and certain liver-directed interventional procedures. Its approved uses vary by country.

2. What is the active ingredient in Lipiodol Ultra Fluid?

Lipiodol Ultra Fluid contains ethyl esters of iodized fatty acids of poppy seed oil. The iodine concentration is 480 mg/mL. It does not contain conventional excipients in the referenced product information.

3. Is Lipiodol Ultra Fluid a regular medicine?

It is a specialist iodinated contrast product intended for use in diagnostic and interventional procedures. It is not a routine medicine for patients to take at home and should only be administered by qualified healthcare professionals.

4. Can Lipiodol Ultra Fluid be self-administered?

No. Lipiodol Ultra Fluid is intended for specialist medical procedures. Its administration requires appropriate clinical expertise, imaging equipment, monitoring, and knowledge of the product’s contraindications and precautions.

5. Can Lipiodol Ultra Fluid affect the thyroid?

Yes. Because it contains a substantial amount of iodine, Lipiodol Ultra Fluid can affect thyroid function, particularly in susceptible individuals. Patients with known thyroid disease should tell their healthcare professional before the relevant procedure.

6. What are Lipiodol Ultra Fluid side effects?

Possible adverse effects include hypersensitivity reactions, thyroid-related effects, respiratory complications in susceptible patients, and embolic complications. The actual risk depends on the indication, procedure, patient factors, and method of administration.

7. Is Lipiodol Ultra Fluid safe during pregnancy?

Pregnancy considerations depend on the specific procedure. Certain uses, including hysterosalpingography, have pregnancy-related contraindications. Patients should always inform their healthcare professional if they are pregnant or could be pregnant before an examination.

8. Who should not receive Lipiodol Ultra Fluid?

Contraindications depend on the approved local product information and intended procedure. Important contraindications can include hypersensitivity to the product, manifest hyperthyroidism, and certain bleeding or traumatic conditions. Procedure-specific contraindications may also apply.

9. How should Lipiodol Ultra Fluid be stored?

The referenced product information states that it should be protected from light and stored below 25°C. It should not be used if its appearance becomes opaque or dark amber. Always follow the storage instructions on the locally supplied product packaging.

10. Is Lipiodol Ultra Fluid available in every country?

No. Product availability and approved indications can differ between countries. Guerbet specifically notes that the approved indications for Lipiodol Ultra Fluid may vary according to national regulations. Healthcare professionals should consult the applicable local prescribing information.

Disclaimer

This product information is provided for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Lipiodol Ultra Fluid is a specialist iodinated contrast product and should only be used by qualified healthcare professionals in accordance with the approved prescribing information and appropriate clinical protocols.

Do not self-administer this product or attempt to use it without medical supervision. Individual risks, benefits, contraindications, and suitability vary from patient to patient. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for advice regarding diagnosis, treatment, and the appropriate use of Lipiodol Ultra Fluid.

Note: Product indications, availability, administration requirements, and regulatory information may differ by country. The current locally approved prescribing information should take priority over general online product descriptions.