Comparison of iopamidol, ioxaglate, and diatrizoate during coronary arteriography in dogs.

Iopamidol and ioxaglate are two new contrast media which have an osmolality approximately half that of diatrizoate for the same iodine concentration. These three contrast media were compared with each other and with Hartmann's solution during coronary arteriography in dogs using hemodynamic and electrocardiographic parameters in addition to coronary venous sinus sampling to measure changes in osmolality, electrolyte, and contrast media concentration. Iopamidol and ioxaglate had similar, but less toxic, effects in comparison with diatrizoate. These new contrast media may offer a reduction in the morbidity and mortality of coronary arteriography.