Preliminary evaluation of di-iodo-triglucosyl benzene. An approach to the design of nonionic water-soluble radiographic contrast media.

A new compound, di-iodo-triglucosyl benzene (DTB), was synthesized and tested for contrast medium potential. It is stable and soluble in water, with a molecular weight of 864 and a viscosity of 33.3 cps at 40degrees C for a 66.6% w/v solution. It is rapidly excreted unchanged by the kidneys. Its estimated LD50 in mice at an intravenous injection rate of 330 mg l/min is 34.0 g/kg. It is highly hydrophilic and not epileptogenic, but its low iodine content (29.4%) makes it unfavorable for clinical use.