Recent advances in contrast agents.
Intravascular contrast agents are remarkably safe and inexpensive. With the recent approval of three new low-osmolality, high-cost contrast media, questions arise as to toxicity, side effects, and choice of particular agents for particular patients and examinations. This article examines the nature and the etiology of the effects of all currently available contrast agents in order to achieve an improved understanding of the relative advantages, disadvantages, and utility of each.
D000818:Animals; D002319:Cardiovascular System / Q000187:drug effects; D002490:Central Nervous System / Q000187:drug effects; D055598:Chemical Phenomena; D002627:Chemistry, Physical; D003287:Contrast Media / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000494:pharmacology* / Q000633:toxicity; D006801:Humans; D007269:Injections, Intra-Arterial; D007275:Injections, Intravenous; D007668:Kidney / Q000187:drug effects; D007928:Lethal Dose 50; D008970:Molecular Weight; D009994:Osmolar Concentration; D013329:Structure-Activity Relationship; D014664:Vasodilation / Q000187:drug effects
D003287:Contrast Media