Gadolinium is a chemical element used in contrast dyes to help provide clearer imaging from inside the body during an MRI scan, which are used to help diagnose (and subsequently monitor) a variety of health conditions, including cancer.

On its own, gadolinium is actually toxic for humans. In order to be used in GBCDs, the gadolinium goes through a process (chelation) that makes it nontoxic and able to be safely used in the human body.

There are two types of gadolinium contrast dyes: linear, whose chemical structure is an open chain of ions that coils around the gadolinium, and macrocytic, whose ions completely enclose the gadolinium ions.

Are GBCDs Approved by the FDA?

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has so far approved eight brands of gadolinium-based contrast agents. One of the dyes, Optimark, was discontinued by its manufacturer in 2018. Other brands of GBCDs include Dotarem, Eovist, Gadavist, Magnevist, MultiHance, Omniscan, and ProHance.

What Are Some Possible Side Effects of Gadolinium?

While gadolinium-based contrast dye is commonly used during MRI scans, there are some possible side effects of gadolinium that it is important to be aware of before using the dye.

Most procedures have certain side effects, and the use of GBCD is no exception. Mild side effects of GBCDs include headache, nausea, dizziness, and a cold sensation upon injection.

However, there is a more serious risk associated with gadolinium dyes: that is, the risk that after the MRI is over and the need for gadolinium in the body is through, that the chemical will be retained in the body for months or even years. Instead of leaving the body, the substance may leave deposits in the tissues. This may lead to gadolinium deposition disease or gadolinium toxicity, in addition to other conditions.

After the substance is injected, gadolinium is filtered out of the body through the kidneys. Although it was initially believed that the kidneys would quickly remove gadolinium from the body after it had been used for MRI contrast imaging, research has indicated that the dye may not always filter out, and can remain in the body for months or years. The substance may build up in the brain, bones, and kidneys, leaving deposits in these tissues that may result in noticeable side effects. In patients who have preexisting kidney conditions, the consequences of this build-up may be severe.

Gadolinium contrast dye has also been associated with a serious disease called nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF) in patients who have significant kidney dysfunction. Nephrogenic systemic fibrosis can cause the skin to tighten, as well as cause damage to the internal organs. This risk is heightened for those with kidney dysfunction who also have multiple sclerosis (MS).

Other possible side effects of gadolinium toxicity may include a painful, burning sensation that spreads throughout the body, shaking, numbness, difficulty breathing, headaches, weakness, loss of mobility, and cognitive difficulties or brain fog. Some sufferers of the condition may experience joint or bone pain, thickened or tight ligaments, tightness in the extremities, or skin changes.

Has the FDA Warned about Potential Gadolinium Risks?

In 2017, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) required that manufacturers of GBCDs include a new warning about gadolinium retention. The federal agency noted that linear gadolinium agents are associated with a higher risk of gadolinium retention—and for a longer period of time—than macrocytic agents.

Have Any GBCD Lawsuits Been Filed?

Patients claim that the retention of gadolinium in their bodies can cause gadolinium toxicity, leading to a number of serious side effects. Indeed, a number of people have filed lawsuits over the retention of gadolinium-based contrast agents used during their MRIs.

Actor and martial artist Chuck Norris and his wife, Gena Norris, filed a lawsuit against 11 drug companies in 2017 following her development of what she claims is gadolinium deposition disease. According to Gena, she began to experience serious side effects after being injected with gadolinium dye for a series of MRI scans. However, the couple dropped their suit in January 2020 without reaching a settlement agreement.

If you or someone you love has suffered from side effects of gadolinium, including gadolinium toxicity or poisoning, you may be able to file a lawsuit and pursue compensation.