There are many ways to find a diagnosis in modern medicine. One of the ways to do this is by using IV contrast in the body. The IV contrast demonstrates internal anatomy, but there are some side-effects with using this imaging tool. Diabetic patients who are taking certain medications can be harshly affected from the IV contrast going into their body. "The diabetic medication that is most known for causing bodily harm is metformin. Metformin is in the drug class biguanide, which decreases the glucose production in the liver, decreases intestinal glucose absorption, and increases insulin sensitivity. Common names for metformin medications are Glucophage, Foramet, and Riomet. Metformin can also be added with other diabetic medications such as Avandamet, Janumet, and Kazano"
…show more content…
It has been recommended by the American College of Radiology that metformin be withheld for forty-eight hours after the procedure where IV contrast in administered into the body. This diabetic medication should only be resumed forty-eight hours later if their creatinine levels are within normal range. It is also recommended that patients who are on this medication need to have their creatinine levels drawn before the procedure to make sure they are healthy enough to have the IV contrast injected into their body. During the procedure, patients will not react immediately. The IV contrast will work through the kidneys, as will the metformin. This is when the IV contrast causes an accumulation of metformin and that causes lactic acidosis, which leads to renal failure. It is important for the computed tomography technologist to pay attention to the patient, and for the patient to communicate with the staff about how they are feeling. This type of care needs to occur with all IV contrast injections and with other diabetic medications" (Bontrager & Lampignano,
It has been recommended by the American College of Radiology that metformin be withheld for forty-eight hours after the procedure where IV contrast in administered into the body. This diabetic medication should only be resumed forty-eight hours later if their creatinine levels are within normal range. It is also recommended that patients who are on this medication need to have their creatinine levels drawn before the procedure to make sure they are healthy enough to have the IV contrast injected into their body. During the procedure, patients will not react immediately. The IV contrast will work through the kidneys, as will the metformin. This is when the IV contrast causes an accumulation of metformin and that causes lactic acidosis, which leads to renal failure. It is important for the computed tomography technologist to pay attention to the patient, and for the patient to communicate with the staff about how they are feeling. This type of care needs to occur with all IV contrast injections and with other diabetic medications" (Bontrager & Lampignano,