Ioversol (Optiray) shortage status
Widespread shortage
A contrast agent injected during X-ray and CT scans to make blood vessels and organs visible.
Shortage history
Reports by product
What's happening
Ioversol is currently affected by 2 active shortage reports filed with Health Canada by LIEBEL-FLARSHEIM COMPANY LLC.
The reported causes are: estimated end date remains unknown, waiting for supply from manufacturer; estimated end date remains unknown, waiting for supply from manufacturer; this pre-filled syringe version is not marketed; shortage of an active ingredient. Manufacturers must report shortages, but end-date estimates are their own projections and often move.
If your usual product is affected, a pharmacist is the fastest route to a solution: they can dispense an unaffected manufacturer's equivalent when one exists, and in most provinces can adapt doses or substitute a therapeutic alternative without a new appointment.
Ioversol is classified under “X-RAY CONTRAST MEDIA, IODINATED” (ATC V08AB).
Recent changes
- No changes recorded yet.
Common questions
What is Ioversol used for?
A contrast agent injected during X-ray and CT scans to make blood vessels and organs visible.
When will Ioversol be back in stock in Canada?
Manufacturers have not provided a reliable end date. This page updates automatically as soon as an estimate is filed.
Why is Ioversol in shortage?
See the reports above; manufacturers must state a reason (most commonly manufacturing disruption or a surge in demand) when filing with Health Canada.
What can my pharmacist do about it?
Often quite a lot: substitute an equivalent product from an unaffected manufacturer, adjust quantities, or in most provinces adapt or renew prescriptions on the spot. Call your pharmacy before visiting, and call 811 for free health advice.
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Possible alternatives in the same class (x-ray contrast media, iodinated)
Data reflects reports manufacturers are legally required to file with Health Canada, republished with per-drug aggregation by rxstat. Estimated end dates are supplied by manufacturers and frequently change. This page describes drug supply only and is not medical advice; never stop or switch a medication without speaking to your pharmacist or prescriber.