Contrast media induced fibrillation: comparison of Angiovist 370 and Renografin 76. Work in progress

Angiovist 370, a new formulation of meglumine/sodium diatrizoate, is being marketed for coronary arteriography. Angiovist 370 contains no significant calcium chelator additives, but according to manufacturer specifications may have a pH as low as 6.0. The contact times required to produce ventricular fibrillation with Angiovist 370 and with Renografin 76 were compared using a canine right coronary arteriography model. The fibrillation contact time was 32.2% longer for the Angiovist 370 than for the Renografin 76. The lower pH therefore does not appear to increase the risk of contrast media induced fibrillation. The increased contact time and safety factor with the Angiovist 370 is most likely related to the absence of calcium chelators in the formulation.