Objective: Contrast media side effects range from minor ones such as itching and vomiting to life-threatening ones such as hypotension and loss of consciousness. The purpose of this study was to determine how contrast media side effects are actually managed in hospitals nationwide, as well as to identify opportunities for the pharmacy department to be involved in contrast media administration, and pharmacists’ awareness of the risk of contrast media side effects.
Methods: A self-administered, unmarked questionnaire survey was conducted in the pharmacy departments of 2,000 hospitals nationwide. The survey asked about the existence of internal rules and manuals regarding contrast media at each facility, how to deal with patients at risk for side effects, opportunities for intervention with patients by the pharmacy department, and opportunities for discussion among pharmacists and other professionals regarding the administration of contrast media.
Results: Of the 2,000 facilities, 96 responded to the questionnaire, among which 69 had internal regulations or manuals. In those with manuals, the manuals stipulated measures such as not administering contrast media or administering premedication in the case of patients with a history of contrast media side effects. In facilities where the manual recommended premedication, it was found that premedication was administered in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Regarding the role of the pharmacy department, it was found that intervention in all items related to risk factors for adverse drug reactions was achieved for only about 10% of the outpatients.
Conclusion: This study revealed that many facilities are involved in the management of contrast media side effects. The results indicate that there is scope for pharmacy departments to intervene more proactively in outpatient settings to ensure appropriate contrast media use in the future.
