Telebrix: a better-tasting oral contrast agent for abdominal computed tomography.

In a randomized, controlled, double-blind trial, Telebrix 38 (ioxithalamate) and Gastrografin (diatrizoate) were compared with respect to taste and degree of opacification of the alimentary canal when used in computed tomography of the abdomen and pelvis. Bowel opacification was excellent with both contrast agents. Patients rated the 2% solution of Telebrix in water significantly better in taste than the control contrast medium, a 2% solution of Gastrografin in water. Of the patients in the Telebrix group 89% judged the taste to be excellent or good, compared with 59% in the Gastrografin group (p = 0.012, Fisher's exact test). Only 1 of 28 patients in the Telebrix group was unwilling to drink Telebrix again, compared with 6 of 27 patients in the Gastrografin group (p = 0.045, Fisher's exact test). There were no significant side effects. Dilute Telebrix 38 is preferable to dilute Gastrografin, in terms of taste and patient tolerance, for bowel opacification on computed tomography, and produces equivalent, excellent bowel opacification.