Although agents like Omniscan are used for MRAs, they are not currently (2009) approved for such use by the FDA.
There are several side effects related to gadolinium-contrasting agents. These include inflammation at the injection site, rash, hives, facial swelling, itching and sweating.
In patients with impaired kidney function, these agents may create even more problems such as the development of nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF) or nephrogenic fibrosing dermapathy. Symptoms of NSF include raised, yellow spots on the whites of the eyes, tightening of the skin, dark marks on the skin and itching, among other conditions.
Allergic side effects are generally mild. Since those with kidney problems may have even more health problems from gadolinium-contrasting agents, dialysis may be needed in order to help rid their bodies of the material.
Possible alternatives to using this agent include ferumoxytol (see Resources).