Cystografin (diatrizoate meglumine)

Cystografin (diatrizoate meglumine injection 30%) is a radiopaque contrast agent indicated for retrograde cystourethrography. Cystografin is injected into a urinary catheter during an X-ray in order to view the female bladder and uretha.

Common side effects of Cystografin include:

• injection site reactions,
• cough,
• changes in taste sensation, and
• widening of blood vessels

Preparation of the Patient

Appropriate preparation is desirable for optimal results. A laxative the night before the examination and a low residue diet the day before the procedure are recommended.

Dosage

The dose for retrograde use in cystography and voiding cystourethrography ranges from 25 to 300 mL depending on the age of the patient and the degree of bladder irritability; amounts greater than 300 mL may be used if the bladder capacity allows. Best results are obtained when the bladder is filled with the contrast agent. If desired, the preparation may be diluted with sterile water or sterile saline as indicated in the table below.

Administration

After sterile catheterization, the bladder should be filled to capacity with Cystografin using a suitable sterile administration set. Care should be taken to avoid using excessive pressure. The presence of bladder discomfort or reflux and/or spontaneous voiding usually indicates that the bladder is full.

Radiography

The commonly employed radiographic techniques should be used. A scout film is recommended before the contrast agent is administered.

Dilution Table
USE DILUTED SOLUTIONS IMMEDIATELY

• Animal reproduction studies have not been conducted with diatrizoate meglumine injection.
• It is also not known whether diatrizoate meglumine injection can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman or can affect reproduction capacity.
• Cystografin should be administered to a pregnant woman only if clearly needed.
• It is not known if Cystografin safe for use in nursing mothers.