The use of gadolinium contrast dye is common to help diagnose a variety of conditions during an MRI scan. Unfortunately, a number of lawsuits have been filed over problems with gadolinium contrast dye, alleging serious or even permanent side effects when the dye remains in patients’ bodies far beyond the MRI—for months or even years after use.

Those who have suffered side effects of the dye after its use during an MRI may be able to file a gadolinium poisoning lawsuit.

Gadolinium Poisoning Lawsuit Consolidation

A growing number of patients are coming forward with allegations that they have suffered from serious or even permanent side effects caused by the gadolinium dye remaining in their bodies and even in their brain for months or years after the procedure.

A group of gadolinium poisoning lawsuits, consisting of at least 21 claims, are pending in a variety of U.S. District Courts. Plaintiffs petitioned for the U.S. Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation (JPML) to consolidate the cases into a single gadolinium toxicity MDL.

The lawsuits up for consolidation were filed on behalf of plaintiffs who allege they have suffered from a number of problems because of gadolinium dye remaining in their bodies. The petition for consolidation noted the expectation of hundreds of similar lawsuits in the near future across the country.

Basics of Gadolinium Contrast Dye

During an MRI, many patients are given a gadolinium contrast agent (or dye) to help enhance the imaging provided by the MRI scan, which can help to diagnose cancer, infections, and other serious conditions.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warned in December 2017 that gadolinium could be retained in the body, including the brain and other vital organs. Not much is yet known about gadolinium retention, and the drugs’ manufacturers have been asked by the FDA to conduct further studies into potential long-term complications. To date, a method of gadolinium detoxification has not been found.

While the drug safety communication notes that the FDA believes that the benefits of gadolinium contrast dye continue to outweigh the risks, the agency has required an updated patient medication guide to provide more information about the dye and its risks.

The FDA noted one condition, nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF), associated with the use of gadolinium contrast dye in patients with pre-existing kidney failure. NSF is a serious disease that can affect the skin as well as internal organs. Unfortunately, there is no cure for NSF, and patients can be left with these symptoms for life.

Filing a Gadolinium Contrast Dye Lawsuit

According to gadolinium poisoning lawsuits, manufacturers of gadolinium contrast dye have actually been aware of the risk of gadolinium toxicity and retention in patients, yet failed to warn the public and the medical community about these risks or note it in the product’s labeling.

If you have suffered from side effects of gadolinium contrast dye after undergoing an MRI with a gadolinium contrast, you may be able to file a claim. While filing a gadolinium poisoning lawsuit cannot undo permanent harm that may have been incurred, it can help to alleviate the financial burden caused by medical expenses and lost wages.