Iohexol is a contrast agent commonly used in medical imaging procedures such as CT scans and angiography. It is a non-ionic, water-soluble compound that helps highlight blood vessels and organs, allowing healthcare professionals to obtain clearer and more detailed images for diagnostic purposes. Despite being a lesser-known substance to the general public, the significance of Iohexol lies in its vital role in enhancing the accuracy and efficacy of various medical examinations, ultimately aiding in the detection and treatment of various health conditions. Its impact on everyday life is evident in the improved diagnostic capabilities it offers, potentially leading to better health outcomes for individuals undergoing medical imaging procedures.
Table of Contents:
- 💡 Commercial Applications
- ⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
- 🏭 Production & Procurement
- ⚠️ Safety Considerations
- 🔬 Potential Research Directions
- 🧪 Related Compounds
💡 Commercial Applications
Iohexol is a non-ionic contrast medium commonly used in radiographic imaging procedures such as angiography, urography, and computed tomography (CT) scans. It is utilized in commercial and industrial applications for its excellent X-ray attenuation properties, allowing for clear and precise imaging of tissues and organs.
In drug and medication applications, Iohexol is primarily used as an imaging agent to enhance the visibility of blood vessels and organs during diagnostic procedures. It is administered intravenously to highlight specific areas of interest, aiding in the detection of abnormalities or diseases within the body. Iohexol is particularly useful in identifying vascular lesions, tumors, and other pathological conditions.
Additionally, Iohexol is employed in pharmaceutical research and development for its compatibility with biological tissues and low risk of adverse reactions. Its inert properties make it a reliable and safe contrast agent for medical imaging, ensuring accurate and reliable results in diagnostic imaging studies. With its widespread availability and proven efficacy, Iohexol continues to play a crucial role in modern healthcare practices.
⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
Iohexol is a nonionic, water-soluble contrast agent used in medical imaging procedures. It is a white to off-white, crystalline powder with no distinctive odor.
Iohexol has a molar mass of approximately 821.1 g/mol and a density of around 1.49 g/cm³. Compared to common food items like water (molar mass of 18.015 g/mol, density of 1 g/cm³) and sugar (molar mass of 342.3 g/mol, density of 1.59 g/cm³), iohexol has a higher molar mass and similar density.
The melting point of iohexol is around 195-198°C, and the boiling point is approximately 674-675°C. Compared to common food items like butter (melting point of 32-35°C, boiling point above 100°C) and sugar (melting point around 160-186°C, no distinct boiling point), iohexol has much higher melting and boiling points.
Iohexol is highly soluble in water and has a viscosity similar to that of blood. Compared to common food items like salt (high solubility in water, low viscosity) and honey (moderate solubility in water, high viscosity), iohexol exhibits excellent solubility and viscosity properties in water.
🏭 Production & Procurement
Iohexol is a type of contrast agent used in medical imaging procedures such as CT scans. The production of Iohexol involves several steps including the reaction of the starting material, 2, 4-bis(2-hydroxyethyl)amino-6-iodo-1,3,5-triazine, with iohexol intermediates under specific conditions to yield the final product.
Iohexol can be procured from pharmaceutical companies that specialize in the production of contrast agents for medical use. Once produced, Iohexol is typically packaged in vials or pre-filled syringes for easy transport. The transportation of Iohexol to hospitals and medical facilities is often done via temperature-controlled shipping to ensure product quality and stability upon arrival.
Medical professionals, such as radiologists and radiological technologists, can procure Iohexol from hospital pharmacies or central supply departments for use in diagnostic imaging procedures. The handling and administration of Iohexol must adhere to strict guidelines to ensure patient safety and maximize the diagnostic value of the imaging examination.
⚠️ Safety Considerations
Safety considerations for Iohexol are important to ensure the well-being of patients and healthcare workers. Iohexol is a contrast agent used in medical imaging procedures such as CT scans, angiography, and myelography. While generally considered safe, there are potential risks associated with its use, including allergic reactions, nephrotoxicity, and contrast-induced nephropathy. Patients with a history of allergies, asthma, renal impairment, or diabetes may be at higher risk of experiencing adverse reactions to Iohexol. It is essential for healthcare providers to assess patients’ medical history, monitor vital signs during and after administration, and be prepared to manage any potential side effects promptly.
Hazard statements for Iohexol include the following: may cause an allergic reaction, potential for nephrotoxicity, and risk of contrast-induced nephropathy. Allergic reactions to Iohexol can range from mild skin rashes to severe anaphylaxis, which can be life-threatening. Patients at higher risk for these reactions should be closely monitored during imaging procedures involving Iohexol. Nephrotoxicity can occur in patients with pre-existing renal impairment, particularly if Iohexol is used at high doses or in combination with other nephrotoxic agents. Contrast-induced nephropathy is a potential complication in patients with compromised kidney function, and measures should be taken to minimize the risk, such as adequate hydration and using the lowest effective dose of Iohexol.
Precautionary statements for Iohexol include the following: assess patients’ medical history before administration, monitor vital signs during and after imaging procedures, and have emergency equipment and medications readily available. It is crucial for healthcare providers to evaluate patients’ risk factors for adverse reactions to Iohexol before administering the contrast agent. Close monitoring of vital signs, including blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen saturation, is recommended during and after the procedure to detect any potential complications promptly. In case of an allergic reaction or other adverse event, healthcare providers should be prepared to provide immediate intervention, such as administering antihistamines, corticosteroids, or epinephrine, as well as ensuring proper airway management.
🔬 Potential Research Directions
One potential research direction for Iohexol is to further explore its use as a contrast agent in medical imaging studies. This could involve investigating its efficacy and safety in various imaging modalities, such as computed tomography (CT) scans and angiography.
Researchers may also explore the potential of Iohexol for use in interventional radiology procedures, such as image-guided biopsies or catheterizations. Studying its effects on different types of tissues and organs could help improve the accuracy and outcomes of these procedures.
Additionally, research could focus on optimizing the dosage and administration of Iohexol to minimize side effects and improve patient comfort during imaging studies. This could involve investigating different injection techniques, timings, and dilutions to enhance the overall experience for patients undergoing contrast-enhanced imaging.
🧪 Related Compounds
One similar compound to Iohexol based upon molecular structure is Iopamidol. Iopamidol is a nonionic water-soluble contrast agent used for diagnostic imaging. It contains six iodine atoms in its structure and has a similar pharmacokinetic profile to Iohexol.
Another compound that shares structural similarities with Iohexol is Ioversol. Ioversol is also a nonionic water-soluble contrast agent used in radiographic procedures. It is comprised of six iodine atoms and has a similar molecular weight to Iohexol.
Iobitridol is another compound that is structurally similar to Iohexol. It is a nonionic contrast agent used in diagnostic imaging and contains six iodine atoms in its molecular structure. Iobitridol has comparable pharmacokinetic properties to Iohexol and is commonly used in radiological procedures.