In the U.S.—

The albumin microspheres sonicated (al-BYOO-min mye-kroe-SFEERS SON-i-kay-ted) preparation is an ultrasound contrast agent. Ultrasound contrast agents are used to help provide a clear picture during ultrasound. Ultrasound is a special kind of diagnostic procedure. It uses high-frequency sound waves to create images or “pictures” of certain areas inside the body. The sound waves produced by the ultrasound equipment can be reflected (bounced off) by different parts of the body, like for example, the heart. As the sound waves return they are electronically converted into images on a television screen. Unlike x-rays, ultrasound does not involve ionizing radiation.

The albumin microspheres sonicated preparation contains very small gas-filled albumin microspheres that reflect the sound waves and help create a better picture. The albumin microspheres sonicated preparation is given by injection into a vein before ultrasound to help diagnose problems of the heart.

The albumin microspheres sonicated preparation is to be given only by or under the direct supervision of a doctor with specialized training in ultrasound procedures. It is available in the following dosage form:

Parenteral
• Injection (U.S.)

In deciding to use a diagnostic agent, 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 the albumin microspheres sonicated preparation, the following should be considered:

Allergies—Tell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to products containing human serum albumin or blood products. Also tell your doctor if you are allergic to any other substances, such as foods, preservatives, or dyes.

Pregnancy—Studies on this agent have not been done in pregnant women. However, in animal studies, the albumin microspheres sonicated preparation caused birth defects and other problems (such as decreased weight). Be sure you have discussed this with your doctor.

Breast-feeding—It is not known whether albumin microspheres sonicated pass into breast milk. However, your doctor may want you to stop breast-feeding for some time after you receive this preparation. Be sure you have discussed this with your doctor.

Children—Studies on this agent have been done only in adult patients, and there is no specific information comparing use of albumin microspheres sonicated in children with use in other age groups.

Older adults—Many medicines have not been studied specifically in older people. Therefore, it may not be known whether they work exactly the same way they do in younger adults. There is no specific information comparing use of albumin microspheres sonicated in the elderly with use in other age groups.

• Congenital heart defects or
• Heart shunt or
• Liver problems—Use of the albumin microspheres sonicated preparation is not recommended because its effect when these conditions are present is not known

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

There are no special precautions to observe after having this test.

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they many need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur:

• Less common or rare
  • Chest pain; difficulty breathing or shortness of breath; itching; skin rash 
  
  

Other side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away after treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Check with your doctor if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome:

• More common
  • Dizziness; flushing of skin or sensation of warmth; headache; nausea and/or vomiting 
  
  

• Less common
  • Changes in taste; dryness of mouth; fatigue; pain at injection site; weakness 
  
  

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