Amyvid (florbetapir F 18) belons to a group of drugs called diagnostic radiopharmaceuticals (RAY dee oh far ma SOO tik als). Amyvid is a radioactive agent that allows images of specific organs in the body to be detected by a PET (Positron Emission Tomography) scan.
Amyvid is used together with a PET scan to detect the amount of plaque in the brain. Plaque is a build-up of certain proteins and diseased nerve cells that is often found in the brain of a person who has signs of Alzheimer"s disease or other causes of dementia.
Amyvid may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Important information
To make sure you can safely receive Amyvid, tell your doctor about all of your medical conditions.
Do not breast-feed within 24 hours after receiving Amyvid. If you use a breast pump during this time, throw out any milk you collect. Do not feed it to your baby. Receiving a radioactive agent such as Amyvid may increase your long-term risk of developing cancer. Talk with your doctor about your specific risk.
Before receiving Amyvid
To make sure you can safely receive Amyvid, tell your doctor about all of your medical conditions.
Receiving a radioactive agent may increase your long-term risk of developing cancer. Talk with your doctor about your specific risk. FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether Amyvid will harm an unborn baby. Before you receive Amyvid, tell your doctor if you are pregnant. Do not breast-feed within 24 hours after receiving Amyvid. If you use a breast pump during this time, throw out any milk you collect. Do not feed it to your baby.
How is Amyvid given?
Amyvid is injected into a vein through an IV. You will receive this injection in a clinic or hospital setting. It is usually given within 30 to 50 minutes before your radiologic test.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Since Amyvid is used as a single dose, it does not have a daily dosing schedule.
What happens if I overdose?
Since Amyvid is given by a healthcare professional in a medical setting, an overdose is unlikely to occur.
What should I avoid?
Follow your doctor"s instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.
Amyvid side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction to Amyvid: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Less serious Amyvid side effects may include:
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headache;
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joint or muscle pain;
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nausea; or
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feeling tired.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
See also: Side effects (in more detail)
What other drugs will affect Amyvid?
There may be other drugs that can interact with Amyvid. Tell your doctor about all medications you use. This includes prescription, over-the-counter, vitamin, and herbal products. Do not start a new medication without telling your doctor.
