Sodium iodohippurate

Sodium iodohippurate is a compound used in the medical field, specifically in nuclear medicine for renal imaging. It is also known as Hippuran or OIH (ortho-iodohippurate).

Chemical Structure[edit | edit source]

Sodium iodohippurate is a sodium salt of iodohippuric acid. Its chemical formula is C9H8INO4Na. The compound consists of a benzene ring substituted with a carboxylic acid group (-COOH), an iodine atom, and a glycine residue. The sodium ion is associated with the carboxylic acid group.

Medical Use[edit | edit source]

In nuclear medicine, sodium iodohippurate is used as a radiopharmaceutical agent for renal imaging. It is labeled with Iodine-131 or Iodine-123, radioactive isotopes of iodine, to allow for imaging of the kidneys. The compound is injected into the patient's bloodstream and is filtered out by the kidneys, allowing for visualization of renal function and detection of any abnormalities.

Pharmacokinetics[edit | edit source]

After injection, sodium iodohippurate is rapidly taken up by the kidneys and excreted in the urine. The rate of uptake and excretion can provide valuable information about renal function. For example, a delay in uptake may indicate renal impairment, while rapid excretion may suggest hyperfiltration.

Safety and Side Effects[edit | edit source]

As with any radiopharmaceutical agent, there are potential risks associated with the use of sodium iodohippurate. These include allergic reactions, radiation exposure, and potential harm to the fetus in pregnant women. However, the benefits of accurate renal imaging often outweigh these risks.