Diatrizoate

Diatrizoate is a type of contrast agent used in medical imaging to enhance the visibility of internal structures in the body during radiographic procedures. It is also known as Amidotrizoic acid, and is sold under various brand names such as Hypaque, Urografin, and Gastrografin.

Chemical Structure

Diatrizoate is an iodinated compound, meaning it contains iodine atoms. Its chemical formula is C11H9I3N2O4. The iodine atoms in the compound are what make it useful as a contrast agent, as they absorb X-rays and appear white on radiographic images.

Uses

Diatrizoate is used in a variety of medical imaging procedures, including:

• Computed tomography (CT) scans of the head, body, and spine
• Intravenous urography, a procedure used to visualize the kidneys, ureters, and bladder
• Angiography, a procedure used to visualize blood vessels
• Hysterosalpingography, a procedure used to visualize the uterus and fallopian tubes

Side Effects

Like all medications, diatrizoate can cause side effects. These may include:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Rash or hives
• Dizziness or fainting
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing

Precautions

Before using diatrizoate, patients should inform their healthcare provider if they have any allergies, especially to iodine or shellfish, as these may increase the risk of an allergic reaction to the contrast agent. Patients with kidney disease, thyroid disease, or certain heart conditions may also need to take special precautions.

See Also

• Contrast agent
• Iodinated contrast