CAMRT Radiography Practice Exam

Which medication may be added to contrast media to help prevent allergic reactions?

1. A steroid or anti-histamine

2. An antibiotic

3. Analgesic medication

4. A bronchodilator

The correct answer is: A steroid or anti-histamine

The addition of a steroid or antihistamine to contrast media is a recognized practice to help prevent allergic reactions. In patients who have a history of allergies, especially to contrast agents, administering these medications can help mitigate potential hypersensitivity responses. Steroids work by dampening the immune response, reducing inflammation, and stabilizing mast cells, which play a key role in allergic reactions. Antihistamines block histamine receptors, thereby reducing the symptoms associated with allergic reactions. While antibiotics may be used to prevent or treat infections, they do not have a role in preventing allergic reactions to contrast media. Analgesics are designed to relieve pain and do not address allergic responses. Bronchodilators are mainly used to treat asthma or other respiratory conditions and are not applicable in this context since they do not target the immune reaction responsible for an allergy. Therefore, using a steroid or antihistamine is the most appropriate choice for managing the risk of allergic reactions linked to contrast media administration.