Imaging Drug Risk Warnings

Bristol-Myers Squibb Co's Definity and General Electric Co's Optison, imaging contrast agents that are used during heart ultrasound procedures (echocardiography), have caused serious reactions and deaths in a number of cases, according to Reuters. The Wall Street Journal reports that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) "is preparing to warn physicians about hazards with drugs used to enhance the diagnosis of heart problems using ultrasound imaging machines," and "the agency also has asked manufacturers to update their product labeling, which they have agreed to do."

• Reuters: FDA to Alert Doctors About Imaging Drugs' Risks
• Wall Street Journal: Ultrasound Drugs Face Black-Box Warning
• Pharmaceutical Drug Liability (FindLaw)