The chemistry of iomeprol and physico-chemical properties of its aqueous solutions and pharmaceutical formulations

The synthesis and the chemical characterization of iomeprol, a new triiodinated nonionic radiographic contrast agent, are reported. The physico-chemical properties both of aqueous solutions of the pure compound and of its pharmaceutical formulations are presented and these last data are compared with those of other contrast media. The pharmaceutical development of the product is described. Iomeprol is obtained via a synthesis which is particularly friendly to the environment. The compound shows an unusually high solubility which allows the formulation of contrast media with the lowest osmolalities and viscosities as compared with corresponding contrast media of the same category. In view of these favourable characteristics and of the remarkably high stability of its solutions, iomeprol for injection is formulated also at 400 mgI/ml, the highest concentration so far available on the market for non-ionic contrast media.