In the U.S.—

Another commonly used name is perfluorooctylbromide.

• Diagnostic aid, radiopaque, gastrointestinal disorders

Perflubron (per-FLOO-bron) is a contrast agent. Contrast agents are used to help provide a clear picture during magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). MRI is a special kind of diagnostic procedure. It uses magnets and computers to create images or ``pictures'' of certain areas inside the body. Unlike x-rays, it does not involve radiation.

Perflubron is taken by mouth before MRI to darken bowel (intestines) images, which may help the doctor diagnose problems or diseases of the bowel.

Perflubron is to be used only by or under the supervision of a doctor. It is available in the following dosage form:

Oral
• Solution (U.S.)

In deciding to use a diagnostic test, any risks of the test must be weighed against the good it will do. This is a decision you and your doctor will make. Also, test results may be affected by other things. For perflubron, the following should be considered:

Allergies—Tell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to contrast agents such as perflubron. Also, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any other substances, such as foods, preservatives, or dyes.

Pregnancy—Studies have not been done in humans or animals. Also, it is not known if the magnetic field used in MRI has any effect on the development of the fetus. Be sure you have discussed this with your doctor.

Breast-feeding—It is not known if perflubron passes into the breast milk.

Children—Although there is no specific information comparing use of perflubron in children with use in other age groups, this agent is not expected to cause different side effects or problems in children than it does in adults.

Older adults—This medicine has been tested and has not been shown to cause different side effects or problems in older people than it does in younger adults.

• Blockage or perforation of the bowel—Either of these conditions may allow perflubron to be absorbed into the body and possibly increase the risk of side effects

Your doctor may have special instructions for you in preparation for your test, depending on the type of test. If you have not received such instructions or if you do not understand them, check with your doctor in advance.

Your doctor may tell you not to eat for at least 4 hours before this test. This is to make it easier for you to drink all of the perflubron solution.

This agent may cause some leakage from the rectum. The use of absorbent pads may be necessary to prevent soiling of clothing and embarrassment.

Perflubron commonly causes some side effects shortly after it is given. Usually they last for only a short while. However, check with your doctor if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome:

• More common
  • Abdominal or stomach fullness;  diarrhea ;  loss of control of bowels;  nausea and vomiting;  oily taste in mouth 
  
  

• Less common
  • Abdominal or stomach pain;  rectal gas ;  rectal leakage of the solution of perflubron 
  
  

• Rare
  • Chills;  dizziness;  flushing or redness of skin;  headache;  numb mouth;  trembling 
  
  

Other side effects not listed above may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your doctor.