The Food and Drug Administration is reporting shortages of iohexol and iodixanol contrast media products. Formulations of these products are manufactured in a facility in Shanghai, China which is currently under COVID-19 lockdown. Production has recently resumed but a reduction in supplies is expected to continue for the next 6-8 weeks.
The
American College of Radiology has indicated that appropriate approaches to this shortage may include utilizing alternative versions of contrast agents, considering non-contrast computed tomography (CT) scans in appropriate situations, or utilizing weight-based dosing for CT.
The Office of the Commissioner of Insurance (OCI) encourages health plan issuers to work with health care facilities and consider increased flexibility around the use of contrast materials in CT scans to make sure insureds can receive timely scans that may utilize alternative contrast agents or diagnostic approaches.
Any questions concerning this bulletin may be directed to Sarah Smith at Sarah.Smith2@wisconsin.gov.