The MRI scanner is shaped like a long hollow tube and can be a somewhat tight fit for some people. Some people should not undergo MRI scanning. If you have a pacemaker, metal implants in your body, aneurysm clips in your brain, or are severely claustrophobic or are pregnant, you should not volunteer for this study. To assess the blood flow to your brain, a small needle will be placed in a vein in your arm. Through this intravenous catheter we will inject the MRI contrast agent, gadolinium.
Gadolinium is very safe and has very few side effects.
You may get a tingling feeling in your arm and some people get slightly flushed or nauseated after the injection. If you have ever had an allergic reaction to gadolinium, you should not participate in this study. Subjects will be asked to take one tablet of Ginkgo Biloba twice a day for one month. The Ginkgo will be supplied by our researchg group. The only side effects reported to any degree with Ginkgo have been mild stomach upset.