Ioxaglic acid (also referred to as iodixanol) is a nonionic, radiopaque, contrast agent used in radiography and computed tomography (CT) imaging. It is a low osmolarity, non-ionic iso-osmolar contrast agent, with a molecular weight of 1068.7. It is composed of an iodinated dimer of glucopyranose, a sugar derivative. Ioxaglic acid is a relatively recent innovation in contrast media; it was first used in clinical trials in Europe in the mid-1990s, with the first commercial product becoming available in 2001. Ioxaglic acid is used to enhance the visibility of internal organs or blood vessels in radiography and CT scans. It is injected intravenously and then travels through the body, where it is absorbed by the organs and blood vessels and is visible on the image. Ioxaglic acid is advantageous over other types of contrast agents because it is less likely to cause allergic reactions and is associated with fewer side effects. It is also considered to be more effective in providing a sharper image than other types of contrast agents.
Ioxaglic acid is a pharmaceutical drug used as a contrast agent in X-ray imaging procedures [1]. Here's a closer look at its key features:
- Type of drug: Iodinated contrast agent
- Uses: Improves the visibility of organs, blood vessels, and tissues during various imaging studies, including:
- Angiography (blood vessel imaging) [1, 2]
- Arthrography (joint imaging) [1, 2]
- Urography (urinary tract imaging) [1, 2]
- Computed tomography (CT) scans [1, 2]
- Hysterosalpingography (imaging of the uterus and fallopian tubes) [2]
- How it works: Ioxaglic acid contains iodine atoms, which readily absorb X-rays. This increased absorption creates a higher contrast between tissues in X-ray images, allowing doctors to see specific areas more clearly [1, 2].
- Benefits: It's a low-osmolality contrast agent [1, 2]. Osmolality refers to the concentration of particles in a solution. Lower osmolality is generally associated with fewer side effects compared to high-osmolality contrast agents [2].
- Brand names: Hexabrix is a common brand name for Ioxaglic acid [1].
- Availability: As of 2021, marketing of Ioxaglic acid may have been discontinued in the US, but it may still be available in some European countries [2].
Important points to consider:
- Ioxaglic acid is a prescription medication and should only be used under the supervision of a healthcare professional [1].
- It's important to discuss potential risks and side effects with your doctor before receiving Ioxaglic acid [1].