Testing two MRI contrast agents for brain imaging in one visit

Plain-English translation of NCT03270059 on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗ · Source last updated February 2026 · Translation generated June 2026 · How we translate trials

Phase 2 — Testing in a bigger group (up to a few hundred people) to see if the treatment actually works and is still safe.

What is this trial?

Researchers are testing whether two contrast agents— and —can be used together during a single MRI scan to get better images of the brain. This study is exploring how these medications interact with each other and whether using them in sequence produces clear, useful images for diagnosing brain problems like tumors, infections, or other abnormalities.

Currently, doctors use for most brain MRI scans, but it has some limitations and safety concerns with repeated use. is a newer contrast agent that might provide additional information. This trial is testing whether combining both agents in one visit could give doctors more detailed images and help them diagnose brain conditions more accurately.

Do you qualify?

You likely qualify if…

you have neurological symptoms such as headaches, loss of consciousness, weakness, or seizures, or radiological findings showing brain abnormalities
you have cancer elsewhere in your body that may have spread to the brain or affected brain blood vessels
you are at least 10 years old
you are able to undergo an MRI scan without anesthesia
you are willing to use effective birth control for at least two months after the study if you are a woman of childbearing age

You likely don't qualify if…

you have a known allergy to iron-based contrast agents or dextran products
you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or suspect you might be pregnant
you have metal implants in your body (such as a pacemaker) or a documented allergy to gadolinium contrast
you have a genetic iron storage disorder (hemochromatosis) or a strong family history of it
you have received ferumoxytol within the past three weeks

What participation looks like

You will come for a single visit lasting about one hour. You'll receive two contrast medications through an IV in your arm—one after the other—and then undergo an MRI scan. The study team will randomly assign you to receive either first followed by , or first followed by . Some participants may be invited back for an optional follow-up MRI scan hours or days later to see how the medication behaves over time.

AI-generated summary from trial data · Jun 7, 2026 · Not medical advice

Trial locations(1 site)

United States

OHSU Knight Cancer Institute, Portland, Oregon