What is this test for?
An IVP is a test to look at the function of the kidneys, ureters, and bladder.
Your appointment
Please see your appointment letter to find where your study will be performed. If you have any questions, please contact Radiology Scheduling at 1-319-356-3444.
If you are not able to do the prep listed below, the test may be delayed or canceled.
Preparing for the procedure
Please tell your doctor or nurse if you are:
- Pregnant or may be pregnant
- Breastfeeding
- Allergic to contrast dye or iodine
- Discuss this with your doctor before the day of the procedure. You may be asked to take medicine the night before and the morning of the procedure.
The day before the test
Noon – Drink entire content of 300 ml bottle of Citrate of Magnesium.*
2:00 pm – Drink 12-ounce glass of water.
5:00 pm – Take 4 tablespoons of Milk of Magnesia by mouth.*
Supper – Clear liquids (clear juices, Gatorade, Kool-Aid, clear broth or bouillon, and/or popsicles).
7:00 pm – Drink 12-ounce glass of water.
9:00 pm – Drink 12-ounce glass of water.
*You can buy Milk of Magnesia and Citrate of Magnesia without a prescription. If you have kidney failure, talk with your doctor before taking anything with magnesium in it.
The day of the test
Do NOT eat or drink after the test.
What to expect
The test will take an hour to an hour and a half. An IV will be placed in your arm.
A clear liquid called contrast or IVP dye will be injected into your IV. A series of x-rays will be taken.
After the procedure
If you are taking Metformin (Glucophage, Glucovance, Avandamet, or Metaglip), this should be stopped for 48 hours after the test.
Talk with your doctor about what to do to control diabetes during this time. If you do not know if your diabetes medicine has Metformin in it, ask your nurse, doctor, or pharmacist.