Perflutren
Generic name: perflutren [ per-FLOO-tren ]
Brand names: Definity, Optison, Definity RT
Dosage forms: intravenous suspension ((lipid microspheres); (protein-type A microspheres))
Drug class:Ultrasound contrast media
What is perflutren?
Perflutren is an ultrasound contrast agent that is used to improve the quality of an echocardiogram (ultrasound of the heart). Perflutren works by changing the way ultrasound waves travel within your heart. This helps the ultrasound portray a sharper image of your heart.
Perflutren is used to allow certain segments of the heart to be seen more clearly on an echocardiogram.
Perflutren may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
Serious side effects may occur during the injection. Tell your caregiver if you feel dizzy, nauseated, light-headed, short of breath, or if you have a severe headache, pounding in your ears, chest pain, fast or slow heartbeats, wheezing, or shallow breathing.
You may be more likely to have a serious reaction if you have severe or uncontrolled heart problems (congestive heart failure, a recent heart attack, serious heart rhythm disorder).
You should not be treated with perflutren if you have a genetic heart condition called "cardiac shunt."
Before taking this medicine
You should not be treated with perflutren if you are allergic to it, or if you have:
a genetic heart condition called "cardiac shunt"; or
if you are allergic to blood products or to a medicine that contains albumin.
Tell your doctor if you have ever had:
a congenital heart defect;
a lung condition that has recently become worse; or
if you have ever had an allergic reaction during a blood transfusion.
Perflutren is made from donated human plasma and may contain viruses or other infectious agents. Donated plasma is tested and treated to reduce the risk of contamination, but there is still a small possibility it could transmit disease. Ask your doctor about any possible risk.
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant.
If you are breastfeeding a baby, use a breast pump to empty your milk supply one time after you are treated with perflutren. Throw out the milk you collect during this time and do not feed it to your baby.
How is perflutren given?
Perflutren is given as an infusion into a vein. A healthcare provider will give you this injection just before the start of your echocardiogram.
Your heart rate, breathing, blood pressure, oxygen levels, and other vital signs will be watched closely for at least 30 minute...
