Gadolinium

First approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1988 for use with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), gadolinium-based contrast agents (GBCAs) are dyes that are injected into patients in order to elucidate abnormal cells and tissues in the results of MRIs and similar tests. The goal of using GBCAs is to help physicians make more accurate diagnoses, allowing for prompt treatments and more optimistic prognoses for afflicted patients.

The five GBCAs available in the U.S. include Omniscan (by GE Healthcare), Magnevist (by Bayer), Optimark (by Covidien), MultiHance (by Bracco Diagnostics, Inc.), and ProHance (by Bracco Diagnostics, Inc.).

Gadolinium Side Effects

Regardless of its cutting-edge ability to aid in the diagnostic process, gadolinium dyes have been reported to cause a debilitating condition known as nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF) (also referred to as nephrogenic fibrosing dermopathy (NFD)). NSF is marked by the painful constriction of the connective tissues in the skin, muscles, joints, and some organs, which can seriously impair mobility. Should NSF effect the lungs, patients may have difficulty breathing, which can have life-threatening complications.

To date, more than 1,000 cases of NSF have been reportedly diagnosed in patients with a history of exposure to gadolinium contrast agents. Tragically, as little as one exposure can be enough for a patient to develop severe – potentially fatal – gadolinium dye side effects.

Omniscan Litigation

Omniscan litigation, whether in the form of individual or class action lawsuits, allows those who have been injured as a result of being exposed to gadolinium dyes to hold the maker of these dangerous agents legally and financially responsible for their negligence in failing to warn the public about the risks of using GBCAs. Injured parties can receive a thorough evaluation of their case, along with expert advice regarding how to proceed, and the opportunity to get their case started for no upfront cost by attending a complimentary initial consultation with a skilled attorney.

Gadolinium Attorneys

While most Omniscan lawsuits are settled before the case ever goes to trial, gadolinium lawyers are passionate about defending the rights of those injured by GBCAs in any necessary legal proceeding, including mediation, arbitration, and trial. Gadolinium attorneys have extensive experience going up against corporate lawyers, and they will work tirelessly to help injured parties secure the settlement they deserve so victims can focus on recovering and moving on with their lives.

If you or a loved one have used Omniscan and suffered from NSF, you should contact our dangerous drug lawyers immediately for a free and confidential case review. You may be entitled to compensation and we can help.