Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is one of the most widely used medical imaging technologies today. Praised for its detailed images and non-invasive nature, MRI has become essential in diagnosing everything from brain tumors and spinal problems to ligament tears and heart conditions. But as with any medical procedure, it’s natural to wonder: Is your MRI safe?
The short answer is: Yes, MRIs are generally very safe – but like any medical tool, there are a few caveats worth knowing, especially when it comes to contrast agents like gadolinium. This article breaks down the facts, separating myth from medicine.
MRI: A Radiation-Free Alternative
One of the biggest safety advantages of MRI is that it does not use ionizing radiation. That’s a major difference compared to X-rays, CT scans, and PET scans, which do use radiation to produce images of the inside of your body. Ionizing radiation can damage DNA and, in high or repeated doses, raise the risk of cancer. MRIs instead use powerful magnets and radio waves to create images. There’s no radiation involved at all.
So from a radiation exposure standpoint, MRI is considered one of the safest imaging options available.
So, What’s the Catch? Gadolinium-Based Contrast Agents (GBCAs)
Not all MRIs use contrast agents, but when they do, gadolinium is the go-to substance. Gadolinium is a rare earth metal, and in its raw form, it’s toxic to humans. To make it safe, it’s bound to a molecule (called a chelate) that helps your body eliminate it through the kidneys.
However, over the past 15 years, researchers and patient advocates have raised concerns about gadolinium retention – and a potential condition called Gadolinium Deposition Disease (GDD). GDD is a term used to describe a set of symptoms that some patients report after receiving an MRI with gadolinium contrast – even when they have normal kidney function.
Symptoms may include:
- Deep bone or joint pain
- Brain fog or memory issues
- Skin thickening or burning sensations
- Muscle fatigue or weakness
- Headaches and dizziness
These symptoms typically appear within a few days to weeks after the MRI and can persist long-term in some cases.
What the Research Says
There is no question that gadolinium can remain in the body, including in the brain, bones, skin, and other organs, even in people with normal kidney function. This has been confirmed by MRI studies and tissue biopsies. We routinely find large amounts of gadolinium when testing patients for the presence of heavy metals.
However, mainstream medical institutions currently do not recognize GDD as a formal disease, largely because:
- There is no known mechanism linking retained gadolinium to the reported symptoms.
- Studies so far have shown gadolinium deposits in people with no symptoms as well.
- There’s no reliable diagnostic test or treatment protocol for GDD, which makes research and recognition difficult.
That said, in 2017, the FDA issued a safety alert acknowledging gadolinium retention in the body and recommended more research. The European Medicines Agency (EMA) has gone further and suspended or restricted some gadolinium contrast agents that are more likely to release free gadolinium.
A March 2025 study published in the Magnetic Resonant Imaging journal, titled “Precipitation of gadolinium from magnetic resonance imaging contrast agents may be the Brass tacks of toxicity“, found that gadolinium was pulled from it’s chelating agent and converted into nanoparticles by the endogenous presence of oxalate, which is found in common foods such as leafy greens, beans, nuts, potatoes, etc. This might explain why some people develop problems after gadolinium exposure while others do not.
Macrocyclic vs Linear Agents: Know the Difference
Not all gadolinium contrast agents are created equal.
- Linear GBCAs: Looser structure, more likely to release free gadolinium and linger in the body.
- Macrocyclic GBCAs: Tighter, cage-like structure that holds onto gadolinium better and is less likely to deposit.
Most radiologists today prefer macrocyclic agents (brand names Dotarem, ProHance, Gadavist, Clariscan) due to their better safety profile. If you’re concerned, ask your provider which type is being used.
How to Stay Safe with MRI
While the risk of serious side effects from MRI is low, there are some smart precautions you can take:
Ask if contrast is absolutely necessary. Not all MRI scans require gadolinium. In many cases (especially for brain or spine imaging), a non-contrast scan may be sufficient.
Discuss your kidney function. People with impaired kidney function are at higher risk of a serious (but rare) condition called Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis (NSF) – a scarring disease linked to gadolinium exposure. A simple blood test (eGFR) can check your kidney health before contrast is used.
Know the type of GBCA. If you must get contrast, ask if the radiology center uses macrocyclic agents, which are considered safer.
Hydrate before and after. Staying well hydrated before and after your MRI may help flush gadolinium out of your body more quickly. It might be worthwhile to take an oral chelating agent such as EDTA before and after a scan to help remove any released gadolinium.
Track your exposures. If you’ve had multiple MRIs with contrast over the years, it’s worth keeping a personal medical history. You can ask for records of which agents were used, and how many times.
What to Do If You Suspect GDD
If you’ve had an MRI with gadolinium and are experiencing persistent symptoms, talk to a healthcare provider. While GDD is not officially recognized in most diagnostic manuals, some physicians – especially those in functional medicine or environmental medicine – may be familiar with the condition and explore treatments such as chelation therapy. We routinely work with a specialized chelating agent called DTPA to remove gadolinium from patients.
Final Thoughts: Balancing Risks and Benefits
MRIs have revolutionized medicine. They’re a powerful tool that helps save lives, guide surgeries, diagnose difficult conditions, and monitor chronic diseases – all without exposing you to radiation.
The issue of gadolinium retention and potential long-term effects deserves attention, but it shouldn’t cause widespread fear. For most people, MRI scans – even with contrast – are safe and effective. That said, awareness matters. Knowing your options, asking the right questions, and understanding how contrast works can empower you to make smarter decisions for your health.
In short: MRI is safe – but informed MRI is even safer.
Author
Scott Rollins, MD, is Board Certified with the American Board of Family Practice and the American Board of Anti-Aging and Regenerative Medicine. He specializes in bioidentical hormone replacement for men and women, thyroid and adrenal disorders, fibromyalgia and other complex medical conditions. He is founder and medical director of the Integrative Medicine Center of Western Colorado (www.imcwc.com) and Bellezza Laser Aesthetics (www.bellezzalaser.com). Call (970) 245-6911 for an appointment or more information.
