Last reviewed · How we verify

Optison echocardiography contrast agent

University of Utah · FDA-approved active Small molecule

Optison echocardiography contrast agent is a Ultrasound contrast agent Small molecule drug developed by University of Utah. It is currently FDA-approved for Echocardiographic contrast enhancement for left ventricular opacification, Improvement of left ventricular border definition in patients with suboptimal echocardiograms. Also known as: Perflutren Protein-Type A microspheres.

Optison is a microbubble contrast agent that reflects ultrasound waves to enhance echocardiographic imaging of the heart.

Optison is a microbubble contrast agent that reflects ultrasound waves to enhance echocardiographic imaging of the heart. Used for Echocardiographic contrast enhancement for left ventricular opacification, Improvement of left ventricular border definition in patients with suboptimal echocardiograms.

At a glance

Generic nameOptison echocardiography contrast agent
Also known asPerflutren Protein-Type A microspheres
SponsorUniversity of Utah
Drug classUltrasound contrast agent
ModalitySmall molecule
Therapeutic areaCardiovascular
PhaseFDA-approved

Mechanism of action

Optison consists of perfluorocarbon gas-filled microspheres stabilized by a human serum albumin shell. When injected intravenously, these microbubbles circulate through the bloodstream and reflect ultrasound energy, creating enhanced contrast in cardiac chambers and improving visualization of cardiac structures, wall motion, and perfusion during echocardiography.

Approved indications

Common side effects

Key clinical trials

Primary sources

Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.

SourceUsed for
ClinicalTrials.govTrial enrolment, design, endpoints, results

Competitive intelligence

For the full competitive landscape — auto-detected comparators, recent regulatory actions across the set, upcoming PDUFA, patent timeline, sponsor landscape:

Frequently asked questions about Optison echocardiography contrast agent

What is Optison echocardiography contrast agent?

Optison echocardiography contrast agent is a Ultrasound contrast agent drug developed by University of Utah, indicated for Echocardiographic contrast enhancement for left ventricular opacification, Improvement of left ventricular border definition in patients with suboptimal echocardiograms.

How does Optison echocardiography contrast agent work?

Optison is a microbubble contrast agent that reflects ultrasound waves to enhance echocardiographic imaging of the heart.

What is Optison echocardiography contrast agent used for?

Optison echocardiography contrast agent is indicated for Echocardiographic contrast enhancement for left ventricular opacification, Improvement of left ventricular border definition in patients with suboptimal echocardiograms.

Who makes Optison echocardiography contrast agent?

Optison echocardiography contrast agent is developed and marketed by University of Utah (see full University of Utah pipeline at /company/university-of-utah).

Is Optison echocardiography contrast agent also known as anything else?

Optison echocardiography contrast agent is also known as Perflutren Protein-Type A microspheres.

What drug class is Optison echocardiography contrast agent in?

Optison echocardiography contrast agent belongs to the Ultrasound contrast agent class. See all Ultrasound contrast agent drugs at /class/ultrasound-contrast-agent.

What development phase is Optison echocardiography contrast agent in?

Optison echocardiography contrast agent is FDA-approved (marketed).

What are the side effects of Optison echocardiography contrast agent?

Common side effects of Optison echocardiography contrast agent include Headache, Nausea, Chest pain or discomfort, Flushing, Hypersensitivity reactions.

Related