Advantages of the new low-osmolar radiographic contrast media.

Intravascular contrast media are important in the radiological diagnostic process. Their use is associated with significant side-effects, but new low-osmolar contrast agents have been developed in an attempt to decrease the severity and incidence of these. The molecular structure of contrast media and their relationship to side-effects is discussed. The advantages of, indications for and contraindications to the new low-osmolar contrast media are presented.