Contrast Media Shortage Resources

The COVID-19-related shutdown of a GE Healthcare plant in Shanghai has interrupted manufacture of iodinated contrast media used in many imaging exams. GE Healthcare’s Omnipaque and Visipaque contrast media were added to the FDA drug shortage list on May 9. This shortage is forcing the delay of many non-emergency exams.

The ACR® offers the following resources to help practices continue to provide necessary care during this trying time. These resources are not intended to be — nor offered as — comprehensive medical guidelines. The ACR will update this page as reliable information becomes available.

ACR Resources

ACR Advocacy In Action: FDA Approves Temporary Importation of Bracco Iomeprol Injection  - Added July 15

ACR Advocacy In Action: FDA Allows US Providers to Buy Bayer Foreign-Labeled Contrast Media - Added July 14

ACR and RBMA Ask Payers for Prior Authorization Flexibility Due to Contrast Media Shortage - Added May 26

ACR Works With Federal Government to Help Address Contrast Shortage Issues - Added May 24

ACR Statement on Contrast Media Shortage - Updated May 13
This statement offers some recommendations on how providers may address this emergency locally. The recommendations are not exhaustive or prescriptive. Providers and administrative leaders are encouraged to incorporate sound clinical judgment in all decisions affecting patient care.

ACR Appropriateness Criteria: Use AC Portal to search for alternative imaging studies for a given indication (that may not require contrast material) by clicking the “Explore by scenario” icon.

ACR Contrast Manual — APPENDIX A: Contrast Media Specifications Table

Peer-to-Peer Information (not official ACR guidance)

JACR

AJR

Other Helpful Resources