Biochemical and hematological alterations associated with intravenous administration of double doses of non-ionic contrast media in anesthetized dogs

To monitor the effects of a double dose of non-ionic contrast agent administered intravenously (iv) to anesthetized dogs, on the major functions and the biochemical and hematological parameters, two nonionic contrast agents were tested (Optiray 350 and Ultravist 370) on two lots of 15 adult male and female dogs. The administered dose was 7 ml/kg and the recommended dose was 3.5 ml/kg. Several biochemical and hematological parameters were determined at 15, 60 min and 24 h after administration of contrast agents. Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and bilirubin (BILI) had a statistical significance at F < 0.05 in values measured after 15 min, and statistical significance at p < 0.001 were obtained for aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and BILI. Statistical significance at F < 0.05 for the parameters measured after 60 min were BILI and AST, and statistical significance of values at p < 0.001 was obtained for the same parameters. Within 48 h of substance administration, the values of the tested parameters came back within physiological limits. Administration of contrast substance in double dose did not produce changes in pulse, body temperature and respiratory rate.