Editorial reviewed
Last updated
May 31, 2026
Last reviewed
May 31, 2026
Review context
Editorial review using FDA, ACR, and RadiologyInfo patient-safety guidance.

Three-minute prep

Four things to clarify before consent

You do not need to debate every detail at the scanner. These are the high-value points to clarify with the ordering clinician or radiology team before contrast is given.

Confirm the reason

Ask what clinical question contrast is expected to answer and whether that answer changes treatment.

Screen personal risks

Bring up kidney disease, prior reactions, pregnancy, breastfeeding questions, allergies, and repeated contrast history.

Know the agent

Ask for the gadolinium-based contrast agent name, whether it is macrocyclic or linear, and the planned dose.

Plan the records

Before the scan, ask how to get the radiology report, agent name, dose, and administration record afterward.

Questions to ask

Use the questions that match your situation

Copy the relevant questions into your portal message, bring them to the appointment, or ask them before signing the contrast consent form.

Need and alternatives

  • What diagnosis, treatment decision, or surgical plan depends on using contrast?
  • Can the MRI be performed without contrast first, or can ultrasound, CT, or another test answer the question?
  • If contrast is optional, what information might be missed without it?

Agent and dose

  • Which gadolinium-based contrast agent will be used, by brand or generic name?
  • Is the agent linear or macrocyclic, and why is this agent preferred for my exam?
  • Will the lowest dose that still answers the clinical question be used?

Risk screening

  • Do I need a recent creatinine or eGFR result before contrast?
  • How should prior contrast reactions, allergies, asthma, pregnancy, breastfeeding questions, or kidney disease affect the plan?
  • If I have had multiple contrast MRIs, should that change the agent choice or imaging plan?

After the scan

  • How can I get the agent name, dose, lot number if available, and MRI records after the scan?
  • What symptoms after leaving the facility should prompt urgent care or a call to radiology?
  • Who should I contact if I have a delayed reaction or need the contrast administration record?

Bring this information

  • MRI order, reason for the exam, and the body area being scanned.
  • Prior MRI dates and facility names, especially any scans that used contrast.
  • Known kidney disease, kidney surgery, transplant history, dialysis, diabetes, or recent creatinine/eGFR results.
  • Prior reactions to gadolinium or iodinated contrast, allergies, asthma, mast-cell/MCAS history, and current medications.
  • Pregnancy, possible pregnancy, breastfeeding questions, and whether repeat contrast studies are planned.

Before you leave, ask how to get

Agent name

Brand or generic name of the gadolinium-based contrast agent used.

Dose and route

Dose or volume administered, injection time, and any documented reaction notes.

Report and images

Radiology report plus MRI image files if another clinician will review them.

Kidney labs

Creatinine or eGFR results if they were checked before contrast.

Useful background

Learn the terms before the appointment

Contrast AgentsReview GBCA names, linear vs macrocyclic structure, and retention context.Records RequestUse a focused checklist to request agent, dose, report, images, and labs.MRI Side EffectsUnderstand immediate and delayed symptoms to document after a scan.

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