Ipodate sodium

Ipodate sodium is a type of radiocontrast agent used in radiology to enhance the visibility of internal structures in X-ray imaging. It is also known as Oragrafin Sodium and is classified as an iodinated contrast media.

History

Ipodate sodium was first introduced in the 1970s as a contrast agent for gallbladder imaging. It was later found to have thyroid inhibiting properties and was used off-label for the treatment of hyperthyroidism.

Medical Uses

Ipodate sodium is primarily used in cholecystography, a diagnostic procedure used to visualize the gallbladder and biliary tract. It is administered orally and is excreted into the bile, providing contrast for X-ray imaging.

In addition to its use in radiology, ipodate sodium has been used off-label for the treatment of hyperthyroidism due to its ability to inhibit the conversion of thyroxine (T4) to triiodothyronine (T3), the active form of thyroid hormone. However, it is not commonly used for this purpose due to the availability of more effective and safer treatments.

Side Effects

Like other iodinated contrast media, ipodate sodium can cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and rash. Serious side effects are rare but can include anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction.

Pharmacology

Ipodate sodium is an iodinated compound, which means it contains iodine atoms that can absorb X-rays and provide contrast. It is excreted into the bile by the liver, allowing it to outline the gallbladder and biliary tract in X-ray imaging.

In addition to its radiopaque properties, ipodate sodium also inhibits the enzyme 5'-deiodinase, which converts T4 to T3 in the body. This can reduce the levels of active thyroid hormone and help to control the symptoms of hyperthyroidism.

See Also

• Iodinated contrast media
• Cholecystography
• Hyperthyroidism

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