Which of the following is an example of Low-Osmolar contrast medium?

• A. ioversol (Optiray)
• B. diatrizoate sodium (Hypaque)
• C. iohexol (Omnipaque)
• D. iodixanol (Visipaque)

Answer: (D)

Iodixanol (Visipaque) is classified as a Low-Osmolar contrast medium (LOCM) due to its unique chemical structure and osmolarity properties. Low-Osmolar contrast media are designed to be less viscous and result in fewer adverse reactions when administered compared to high-osmolar contrast media.

Iodixanol is an iso-osmolar contrast agent, which means it has an osmolarity similar to that of human plasma. This similarity reduces the likelihood of osmotically-induced side effects such as renal impairment and allergic reactions. The development of LOCM like iodixanol has been significant in the field of imaging, promoting patient safety and comfort during procedures that involve contrast injections.

The other options listed are classified differently. For example, ioversol (Optiray) is also a low-osmolar contrast medium, but it does not have the same iso-osmolar properties as iodixanol. Diatrizoate sodium (Hypaque) is a high-osmolar contrast medium, which is typically associated with a higher incidence of side effects. Iohexol (Omnipaque), while a low-osmolar contrast medium, does not share the iso-osmolar attribute of iodixanol.

Understanding