Diatrizoate meglumine

Diatrizoate Meglumine is a radiocontrast agent used in medical imaging to enhance the visibility of internal structures in X-ray based imaging techniques such as computed tomography (CT) scans. It is a water-soluble, iodine-based contrast medium that is administered intravenously or orally.

History

Diatrizoate Meglumine was first synthesized in the mid-20th century as part of a broader effort to develop iodine-based contrast agents for use in radiographic imaging. It was one of the first contrast agents to be widely used in clinical practice.

Pharmacology

Diatrizoate Meglumine is a derivative of triiodobenzoic acid, and contains three iodine atoms, which are responsible for its radio-opaque properties. When administered, it is distributed throughout the body's extracellular fluid compartment, and is excreted unchanged in the urine by glomerular filtration.

Clinical Use

Diatrizoate Meglumine is used in a variety of diagnostic imaging procedures, including angiography, urography, cholangiography, computed tomography, and gastrointestinal tract radiography. It is also used in myelography, a technique for imaging the spinal cord and nerve roots.

Side Effects

Like all iodine-based contrast agents, Diatrizoate Meglumine can cause side effects, including allergic reactions, nausea, vomiting, and renal impairment. In rare cases, it can cause severe allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis.

See Also

• Iodinated contrast
• Radiology
• Medical imaging

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