Blood specific agents

Idee J-M, Tichkowsky I, Port M, Petta M, Le Lem G, Le Greneur S, Meyer D, Corot C (2002) lodiated Contrast Media from Non-Specific to Blood-Pool Agents. 222 151-171 Igau A, see Majoral J-P (2002) 220 53-77 Imamoto T, see Crepy KVL (2003) 229 1-40 Iwaoka M, Tomoda S (2000) Nucleophilic Selenium. 208 55-80... 

The noncovalent approach is based on the use of complexes containing suitable moieties which are able to recognize specific proteins, primarily human serum albumin (HSA). When the targeting protein is confined in the blood, the adduct between the serum albumin and the functionalized complex may function as a blood pool agent. Due to the reversible nature of binding between the protein and the paramagnetic chelate, these adducts maintain excretory pathways typical of small complexes which, from the pharmacological point of view, favors them over covalently bound macromolecules. 

The presence of antibodies to a specific agent is evidence of exposure to that antigen. Blood tests can then be devised to test for those antibodies leading to the detection of disease states as well as quantiation of hormonal levels and drug exposures. 

Data on non-gadolinium based compounds are summarized in chapters six and seven describing both tissue-specific and blood-pool agents. 

Other bothersome side effects are related to specific agents. Niacin, for instance, is often associated with cutaneous vasodilation and a sensation of warmth when doses are administered, but administering an extended-release form of this drug can reduce these sensations.71 99 Some fairly serious problems, including liver dysfunction, gallstones, and pancreatitis, can occur with many antihyperlipidemia drugs, but the incidence of these side effects is rare. Cardiovascular problems such as arrhythmias, blood dyscrasias, and angioneurotic syndrome may also occur with fibric acids. 

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