Shortage of Contrast for Imaging Services

Because of a global shortage of iodinated contrast material (Omnipaque) caused by temporary overseas manufacturing disruptions, ChristianaCare is taking steps to preserve supply so that it remains available for the most time-sensitive and urgent patient needs. (Learn more in our frequently asked questions.)

Omnipaque contrast is the most widely used contrast material for CT scans and radiographic examinations at ChristianaCare facilities. It is also used for cardiac imaging and interventions, and in the GI lab, Surgicenter and other settings.

The shortage is expected to last several weeks, and likely into the summer months.

Hospitals and health care organizations worldwide are managing the effects of the shortage and the impact to patient care.

ChristianaCare is making every effort to meet the needs of patients who need this product in their procedures. We are working individually with physicians to prioritize those patients with the most urgent needs.

Wherever possible, we are using alternative contrast material and limiting its use to ensure adequate supplies for time sensitive and emergent exams. It is possible that some elective procedures that use this product will need to be delayed.

ChristianaCare will continue to look for options to minimize disruptions created by the shortage, as we serve our community as expert, caring partners in health.

Learn more in our frequently asked questions (FAQs).

COVID-19: New Visitation Guidelines. Click here for what to expect at ChristianaCare during COVID-19.

Coming for Care | Vaccines & Boosters | Testing | Health & Safety | Visitor Policies

ChristianaCare

Shortage of Contrast for Imaging Services

Because of a global shortage of iodinated contrast material (Omnipaque) caused by temporary overseas manufacturing disruptions, ChristianaCare is taking steps to preserve supply so that it remains available for the most time-sensitive and urgent patient needs. (Learn more in our frequently asked questions.)

Omnipaque contrast is the most widely used contrast material for CT scans and radiographic examinations at ChristianaCare facilities. It is also used for cardiac imaging and interventions, and in the GI lab, Surgicenter and other settings.

The shortage is expected to last several weeks, and likely into the summer months.

Hospitals and health care organizations worldwide are managing the effects of the shortage and the impact to patient care.

ChristianaCare is making every effort to meet the needs of patients who need this product in their procedures. We are working individually with physicians to prioritize those patients with the most urgent needs.

Wherever possible, we are using alternative contrast material and limiting its use to ensure adequate supplies for time sensitive and emergent exams. It is possible that some elective procedures that use this product will need to be delayed.

ChristianaCare will continue to look for options to minimize disruptions created by the shortage, as we serve our community as expert, caring partners in health.

Learn more in our frequently asked questions (FAQs).

COVID-19: New Visitation Guidelines. Click here for what to expect at ChristianaCare during COVID-19.

Coming for Care | Vaccines & Boosters | Testing | Health & Safety | Visitor Policies

Oral Antiviral Medications

ChristianaCare offers two oral antiviral medications—Paxlovid and Molnupiravir —to help people at high risk of complications from COVID-19.

Oral antiviral medications are pills prescribed by a health care provider that can be taken at home.

Oral antiviral medications are not a cure. However, they may help keep symptoms from becoming more serious in people at the highest risk from COVID-19. They may also help shorten the amount of time you are sick from COVID-19 and/or keep you from needing to be in the hospital.

The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has authorized these medications for Emergency Use.

Certain people who are COVID-19-positive and meet very strict FDA criteria may qualify for these medications on a case-by-case basis. Please talk to your health care provider.

Frequently Asked Questions

The antiviral medications may be appropriate for people who are within their first five days of symptoms from COVID-19 and who are not in the hospital, but who are more likely to become seriously ill. This includes older people and those with chronic health conditions like heart disease, cancer or diabetes that make them more vulnerable. Both medications are approved for adults and Paxlovid is authorized for children ages 12 and older.

Talk with your health care provider to determine if Molnupiravir or Paxlovid is an appropriate treatment option for you. If you don’t have a provider or have trouble reaching your provider, please call 302-428-2400, click option 3 and our team can help with navigating treatment.

Antiviral medications help your body fight off viruses that cause disease, reduce the symptoms of an infection and shorten the length of illness. It’s important to note that these medications are meant to be taken after you’ve experienced COVID-19 symptoms. They cannot be used to prevent COVID-19 or in people who test positive for COVID-19 but do not have symptoms.

Neither Molnupiravir nor Paxlovid can be used in patients hospitalized due to COVID-19.

Oral antiviral medications are still being studied, so it is possible that not all of the risks are known at this time. Talk with your health care provider. If you start the medication, please use the Center for Virtual Health texting platform to report any side effects or issues.

The safety of these medications was studied before their Emergency Use Authorizations and are considered safe for patients who meet certain criteria. The following advisories were issued:

Paxlovid cannot be used in patients with severe liver or kidney disease. It also can have serious interactions with various medications, so you should always tell your health care provider about other medications or supplements that you may be taking.

Molnupiravir is only authorized for adults because it may affect bone and cartilage growth. The medication is generally discouraged during pregnancy as well.

Paxlovid has more promising data than Molnupiravir, but they have not been studied together. The National Institutes of Health recommends Paxlovid over Molnupiravir when possible.

There are no costs to the patient for these medications.