Ultravist

Iopromide (300mg I/ml)
Price: ₹1800 - ₹3500 per 100ml bottle (Hospital/Institutional pricing varies)
Mfr: Bayer Zydus Pharma (formerly Bayer Pharmaceuticals) | Form: Injection Solution

📋 Clinical Overview

Iopromide is a non-ionic, low-osmolar, monomeric iodinated contrast medium used for intravascular and intrathecal radiographic imaging. It contains 300 mg of organically bound iodine per milliliter. Its low osmolality (approximately 590 mOsm/kg water at 37°C for the 300 mg I/ml concentration) reduces the risk of adverse hemodynamic and pain reactions compared to older ionic agents. It is widely used in computed tomography (CT), angiography, and urography in the Indian healthcare setting.

💊 Dosage & Administration

Adult: Dose depends on type of examination, patient weight, and imaging equipment. General IV guidelines: CT Body: 50-150 ml (15-45 g I); Angiography: Varies by vessel (e.g., cerebral: 5-10 ml per injection, aortic: 20-50 ml). Maximum single dose should not exceed the lowest dose necessary for adequate imaging.

Note: For intravascular use: Administer as a bolus injection or controlled infusion using a power injector. Use strict aseptic technique. Pre-warming to body temperature reduces viscosity. For intrathecal use (myelography): MUST use only the specific formulation approved for intrathecal administration. Administer via lumbar puncture after dilution with CSF. Patient must remain in semi-upright position. Do not mix with other drugs or solutions.

⚠️ Contraindications

  • Known hypersensitivity (anaphylaxis) to iopromide or any other iodinated contrast media
  • Patients with manifest hyperthyroidism or with autonomously functioning thyroid nodule
  • Myelography in patients with known seizures (unless adequately controlled with anticonvulsants)
  • Myelography in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to contrast media

🔬 Mechanism of Action

Iopromide is a radiopaque contrast agent. It contains iodine atoms (which have a high atomic number) that effectively absorb X-rays. When injected into blood vessels, body cavities, or the subarachnoid space, it attenuates X-rays passing through the body, creating a contrast between the fluid-filled spaces (e.g., blood vessels, renal collecting system, cerebrospinal fluid) and surrounding tissues on radiographic images.

🤕 Side Effects

  • Sensation of warmth/flushing (most common)
  • Metallic taste in mouth
  • Nausea
  • Mild pain at injection site
  • Headache (especially post-myelography)
  • Vomiting

🤰 Special Populations

Pregnancy: Category B (US FDA). Iodinated contrast media cross the human placenta and enter the fetal circulation. Use only if clearly needed and after careful risk-benefit assessment, especially during first trimester. Potential risk of neonatal hypothyroidism exists but is considered very low with single exposure.

Driving: Patients should be advised not to drive or operate machinery for several hours after the procedure, especially if they received sedatives, experienced a vasovagal reaction, or underwent myelography.

🔄 Drug Interactions

MetforminRisk of lactic acidosis if contrast-induced nephropathy occurs. Must be withheld before and after procedure as per protocol.High
Interleukin-2Increased risk of delayed hypersensitivity reactions to contrast media.Moderate
Beta-blockersMay mask tachycardia as an early sign of anaphylaxis and may impair response to epinephrine.Moderate
NSAIDs (e.g., Ibuprofen)May increase risk of contrast-induced nephropathy, especially in pre-existing renal impairment.Moderate
Diuretics (e.g., Furosemide)May potentiate dehydration and increase risk of nephrotoxicity.Moderate
Other Nephrotoxic drugs (Aminoglycosides, Amphotericin B)Additive risk of acute kidney injury.High

🔁 Alternatives to Ultravist

Same composition (Iopromide (300mg I/ml)), different brands:

Ioprom Vistron Iovis