Vasovistâ„¢ is an albumin-targeted intravascular contrast agent. It is indicated for contrast enhanced MR angiography (CE-MRA) for the visualization of abdominal or limb vessels in patients with suspected or known vascular disease. After IV injection, Vasovistâ„¢ binds reversibly to human albumin in plasma, which results in long-lasting increased relaxivity. Imaging from 5 to 50 min is possible. A small unbound portion is, by glomerular filtration, eliminated by the kidneys.
AngioMARK® was the formerly trade name and MS-325 the research name. Currently the phase III clinical trials are completed to determine its efficacy for peripheral vascular disease and coronary artery disease.
In the U.S., EPIX received an approvable letter from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for Vasovistâ„¢ in January 2005. In 2009, Epix Pharmaceuticals has sold the U.S., Canadian and Australian rights for its blood pool agent (now named ABLAVARâ„¢), to Lantheus Medical Imaging, Inc..

WARNING: NEPHROGENIC SYSTEMIC FIBROSIS Gadolinium-based contrast agents increase the risk for nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF) in patients with acute or chronic severe renal insufficiency (glomerular filtration rate less than 30 mL/min/1.73m²), or acute renal insufficiency of any severity due to the hepato-renal syndrome or the liver transplantation period.

See also MRI Safety.

(dB/dt) Definition: The ratio between the amount of change in amplitude of the magnetic field (dB) and the time it takes to make that change (dt). Because changing magnetic fields can induce electrical fields, this is one area of potential concern for MRI safety limits.
The value of dB/dt is measured in Tesla per second (T/s).
See also Phon and Decibel.