Ionic dimers are used as x-ray contrast agents. They are formed by joining 2 ionic monomers and eliminating 1 carboxyl group and contain 6 iodine atoms for every 2 particles in solution (CM ratio=3).
Ionic dimers have an intermediate osmolarity, intermediate viscosity and an intermediate hydrophilicity between that of ionic and nonionic monomers. The only commercially available ionic dimer is ioxaglate (Hexabrix). Ioxaglate is used primarily for peripheral arteriography.

Isovist® is a nonionic x-ray contrast agent. Isovist® is suitable for intrathecal applications for example CT myelography, cisternography, the evaluation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) circulation and for use in other body cavities. Opacification is directly visible after administration of Iotrolan to the spinal subarachnoid space and various open body cavities. Isovist® flows with the CSF through the arachnoid villi into the venous blood.

Isovue® is a nonionic contrast agent with a wide range of iodine concentrations.
Isovue-370 with its highest concentration of contrast approved for CT is an excellent agent to match the speed and power of multi-detector row CT (MDCT). Prefilled syringes provide easy and efficient contrast media handling. Isovue-M® is indicated for CT myelography.

See also Contrast Media Injector, Single-Head CT Power Injector, Multi-Head Contrast Media Injector, Syringeless CT Power Injector.

MD-Gastroview® (solution of 660 mg diatrizoate meglumine and 100 mg diatrizoate sodium Solution) is an iodinated oral contrast agent with lemon-vanilla-flavor. MD-Gastroview® is water-soluble and suitable for oral or rectal administration.
MD-Gastroview® is indicated for radiographic and CT examination of the esophagus, stomach, proximal small intestine and colon, when a barium sulfate suspension is not feasible or contraindicated.
A usual adult dose for abdominal CT is 240 mL of a solution prepared by diluting 25 mL (9.17 g iodine) to one liter with tap water. Less dilute solutions [up to 77 mL (28.26 g iodine) diluted to one liter with tap water] may be used when indicated. The dose is administered orally about 15 to 30 minutes prior to imaging in order to permit the contrast medium to reach the pelvic loops.

Mallinckrodt, a Tyco Healthcare company makes and distributes products for respiratory care; bulk and dosage pharmaceuticals, primarily for pain relief and addiction therapy; and imaging agents for magnetic resonance, ultrasound, x-ray, and nuclear medicine applications. With worldwide manufacturing and distribution facilities, as well as worldwide sales offices, Mallinckrodt sells its products worldwide.

In June 2007 Tyco International Ltd. completed the separation of its healthcare business, which is named Covidien. Mallinckrodt, Inc. is now part of Covidien Ltd.