Comparison of the side-effects of low-osmolar contrast media in intravenous urography

The subjective side-effects of almost equivalent intravenous iodine doses of the three new low-osmolar contrast media, ioxaglate (Hexabrix), iopamidol (Niopam) and iohexol (Omnipaque) have been recorded and are found to be generally comparable. Urticaria occurred more frequently with ioxaglate than with the other contrast media and there was a tendency for ioxaglate to cause more nausea. Pain at the injection site occurred less often with ioxaglate than with iohexol. If low-osmolar contrast media are to be used in intravenous urography the relative cost of each is important, there being as yet insufficient data concerning the relative incidences of major reactions.