iopodic acid

Iopodic acid is a tri-iodinated benzene derivative classified as an oral cholecystographic agent and radiopaque contrast medium. It is used primarily to visualize the gallbladder and biliary tract during abdominal X-ray procedures due to its high lipid solubility and ability to block X-rays. Iopodic acid has also been used off-label for the treatment of hyperthyroidism (including Graves' disease), where it inhibits 5'-monodeiodinase type I and II enzymes, thereby reducing the peripheral conversion of thyroxine (T4) to triiodothyronine (T3). This results in decreased levels of active thyroid hormone. The drug is absorbed via passive diffusion in the small intestine after oral administration; bile salts enhance its absorption. Most of the drug is excreted via bile into feces with some renal elimination[1][2][3][5].

Brand names

Oragrafin

Other names

ipodateipodate sodium3-[3-[(E)-dimethylaminomethyleneamino]-2,4,6-triiodo-phenyl]propanoic acid