DaTscan

Generic Name: ioflupane I-123 (EYE oh FLOO payne)
Brand Names: DaTscan

What is DaTscan?

DaTscan (ioflupane I-123) is in a group of drugs called diagnostic radiopharmaceuticals. Ioflupane I-123 is a radioactive agent that alows images of the brain to be detected by a gamma camera.

DaTscan is used to detect brain signs of Parkinson's disease in people with symptoms such as tremors, loss of balance or coordination, shuffling walk, or other movement problems.

DaTscan may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Important information about DaTscan

You should not receive DaTscan if you are allergic to ioflupane. Tell your doctor if you have ever had any type of reaction to another contrast agent, or to iodine.

Before you receive DaTscan, tell your doctor if you have kidney or liver disease, or a thyroid disorder.

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Drink plenty of liquid before you receive DaTscan, and for at least 48 hours afterward. Follow your doctor's instructions about the types and amount of liquids you should drink before and after your test. DaTscan is radioactive and it can cause dangerous effects on your bladder if it is not properly eliminated from your body through urination. Do not allow yourself to become dehydrated during the first few days after receiving DaTscan. Call your doctor if you have any vomiting or diarrhea during this time. Follow your doctor's instructions about the type and amount of liquids you should drink.

Before receiving DaTscan

You should not receive DaTscan if you are allergic to ioflupane. Tell your doctor if you have ever had any type of reaction to another contrast agent, or to iodine.

To make sure you can safely receive DaTscan, tell your doctor if you have any of these other conditions:

• kidney disease;

• liver disease; or

• a thyroid disorder.

FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether DaTscan will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant before receiving this medication. It is not known whether ioflupane I-123 passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. You should not breast-feed while you are receiving DaTscan. Older adults may need kidney function tests before receiving DaTscan. Your kidney function may also need to be watched closely after you have received this medication.

See also: DaTscan pregnancy and breastfeeding warnings (in more detail)

How is DaTscan given?

DaTscan is injected into a vein through an IV. You will receive this injection in a clinic or hospital setting. It is usually given about 3 to 6 hours before your radiologic test.

At least 1 hour before you are treated with DaTscan, you will be given a liquid drink that contains medicine to protect your thyroid from harmful radioactive effects of DaTscan.

Drink plenty of liquid before you receive DaTscan, and for at least 48 hours afterward. Follow your doctor's instructions about the types and amount of liquids you should drink before and after your test. DaTscan is radioactive and it can cause dangerous effects on your bladder if it is not properly eliminated from your body through urination.

Expect to urinate often during the first 48 hours after your test. You will know you are getting enough extra fluid if you are urinating more than usual during this time. Urinating often will help rid your body of the radioactive iodine.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Since DaTscan is used only given once before your radiologic test, you will not be on a daily dosing schedule. Call your doctor if for some reason you will not be able to complete your radiologic test within 3 to 6 hours after you receive your injection.

What happens if I overdose?

Since this medication is given by a healthcare professional in a medical setting, an overdose is unlikely to occur.

What should I avoid after receiving DaTscan?

Do not allow yourself to become dehydrated during the first few days after receiving DaTscan. Call your doctor if you have any vomiting or diarrhea during this time. Follow your doctor's instructions about the type and amount of liquids you should drink.

DaTscan side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction to DaTscan: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Less serious DaTscan side effects may include:

• pain, swelling, burning, or irritation around the IV needle;

• headache;

• dizziness, spinning sensation;

• dry mouth; or

• nausea.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

See also: DaTscan side effects (in more detail)

What other drugs will affect DaTscan?

You may need to stop using certain drugs for a short time before you receive DaTscan. Tell your doctor about all other medicines you use, especially:

• benztropine (Cogentin);

• buspirone (BuSpar);

• selegiline (Eldepryl, Emsam, Zelapar);

• an antidepressant such as amoxapine (Asendin), bupropion (Wellbutrin, Zyban), sertraline (Zoloft), citalopram (Celexa), or paroxetine (Paxil);

• decongestant cold medicines, diet pills, and other stimulants;

• medication to treat ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) such as Adderall, Ritalin, Concerta, and others; or

• street drugs, especially cocaine, ecstasy, or methamphetamine.

This list is not complete and other drugs may interact with DaTscan. Tell your doctor about all medications you use. This includes prescription, over-the-counter, vitamin, and herbal products. Do not start a new medication without telling your doctor.

Where can I get more information?

• Your doctor or pharmacist can provide more information about DaTscan.