MRI with Gadolinium: Will the contrast affect my kidneys?

You really need to discuss this with your doctor. They should be aware of your medical condition and whether this is really a problem. They do tell you to drink a lot of water after so you can pee out the contrast.

@jeffmarc

I was told the water thing is more important for the contrast used with CT scans than for contrast used with MRI scans. Still wouldn't hurt to drink extra. I know before a CT scan with contrast involving the kidneys they give you water to drink. I don't recall getting it here at home, but that might depend on the specific area being scanned.

@bajjerfan
Just so you know about it, do a quick search on the web for

‘ After an MRI scan with contrast is it necessary to drink water to flush the chemical“

That should clear up the issue. You are flushing it from your kidneys, however. Another thing to include when you talk to the doctor.

My MRI was at Mayo and I asked about extra water and was told not with that particular contrast agent.

From your suggested search.

""It is important that you drink plenty of fluids after your examination to flush the gadolinium out in the urine. Although there is not a set recommended amount, ...''

""Yes, you should drink plenty of water after an MRI with contrast to help your kidneys flush the chemical from your body. While the contrast is naturally filtered out, drinking extra fluids accelerates the process and is one of the most helpful steps to protect your kidneys. Aim for at least an extra liter (about two pints or three cups) over the next 24 hours, unless your doctor has advised you to limit fluids for other medical reasons. ""

I consumed quite a bit more than that over the next 24 hours.

@bajjerfan

I was also given the Gadolinium based contrast agent.

As an side Mayo billed Medicare $4279 for the 3D MRI and contrast agent and were rewarded with a whopping $284 in payment. They may get another $72 from me and/or my supplement carrier. I didn't see what they did to the poor radiologist who read it.

This podcast is an interview with Dr. Daniel Margolis, a professor of radiology and the director of prostate MRI at Weill Cornell Medicine.