Family Practitioner Questions Radiologist

How long does the dye stay in your body?

I will have a CT scan with dye. How long does the dye stay in your body?

3 Answers

FamilyPractitionerRadiologist
In general, it takes 24/48hrs for the contrast to be completely eliminated from the body when the kidneys are functioning well. For people with kidney problems, it takes longer than usual for it to be eliminated. So it is essential to be well hydrated before and after receiving the contrast to help flush the contrast from the body and reduce the risk of acute kidney injury.
48 hours or so
The dye used for CT scans is known as contrast dye. This iodine-based contrast agent is filtered through the kidneys and excreted through urine. Those with normal kidney function usually eliminate it within 24-48 hours. For those with kidney disease or reduced kidney function, it could take longer.