Last updated: February 20, 2026
E-Z-PAQUE is a radiopaque contrast agent primarily comprising sodium diatrizoate, used in imaging procedures such as gastrointestinal studies. Its efficacy depends on high-quality active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) supply. The API for E-Z-PAQUE is primarily related to diatrizoate sodium.
API Composition and Specifications
- Main API: Diatrizoate sodium (molecular formula: C11H9I4NaO4)
- Purity: Typically exceeds 99%
- Specifications: International pharmacopoeia standards for radiopaque agents (e.g., USP, EP)
Key API Suppliers for Diatrizoate Sodium
Major suppliers of diatrizoate sodium operate globally and are certified for pharmaceutical-grade production. The following details are notable:
| Supplier |
Location |
Certified Standards |
Production Capacity |
Certifications |
Market Presence |
| Sigma-Aldrich (Merck) |
USA/Germany |
USP, EP |
High volume |
GMP certified |
Extensive global distribution |
| Rotam Chemicals |
China |
USP, EP |
Moderate capacity |
GMP, ISO 9001 |
Growing presence in APAC |
| Tianjin Biochemical Pharmaceutical |
China |
USP, EP |
Moderate |
GMP |
Focused APAC market |
| Jost Chemical |
USA |
USP, EP |
Large capacity |
GMP, ISO 9001 |
U.S./global markets |
| Shanghai Mol Market |
China |
USP, EP |
Variable |
GMP |
Regional supplier |
Market Dynamics and Sourcing Trends
- The API supply chain for diatrizoate sodium relies on large-scale chemical manufacturing with significant capacity in China and India.
- US/EU companies tend to outsource production to lower-cost regions while maintaining strict quality controls.
- Some pharmaceutical manufacturers produce the API in-house, especially large pharmaceutical firms with integrated manufacturing.
Quality Considerations and Regulatory Compliance
- USP and EP standards dominate API specifications.
- Suppliers should hold certifications such as GMP, ISO 9001, and have validated manufacturing processes.
- Batch-to-batch consistency is critical for radiopaque contrast agents to ensure image quality and patient safety.
Supply Chain Risks
- Geopolitical issues affecting production in China and India.
- Regulatory delays impacting API export approvals.
- Volatility in raw material prices for iodine compounds.
Alternatives to Diatrizoate Sodium APIs
- Iohexol
- Iodipamide meglumine
- Iodinated oil-based contrast agents
These alternatives differ in solubility, safety profiles, and specific imaging applications, but none replace the API requirements for E-Z-PAQUE directly.
Summary
Sourcing high-quality diatrizoate sodium API for E-Z-PAQUE predominantly involves Chinese and U.S. suppliers, with a focus on GMP-certified producers meeting USP and EP specifications. The supply chain depends on the stability of iodine-based compound manufacturing and geopolitical factors.
Key Takeaways
- Diatrizoate sodium API is sourced mainly from China and the United States.
- Suppliers must meet strict regulatory standards, including GMP, USP, and EP.
- Supply chain risks include geopolitical issues and raw material price fluctuations.
- Alternatives to API, such as Iohexol, are not directly compatible for E-Z-PAQUE formulation.
- Quality consistency is essential for pharmaceutical-grade contrast agents.
FAQs
-
What are the primary API suppliers for diatrizoate sodium?
Major suppliers include Sigma-Aldrich, Jost Chemical, and Chinese companies like Tianjin Biochemical Pharmaceutical.
-
What standards regulate diatrizoate sodium API quality?
USP and EP standards govern its purity, specifications, and safety.
-
Are there regional differences in API sourcing?
Yes, Chinese manufacturers provide high-volume API, while U.S. and European firms focus on quality and regulatory compliance.
-
What risks are associated with sourcing this API?
Supply chain disruptions from geopolitical issues, regulatory delays, and raw material cost volatility.
-
Can alternatives replace diatrizoate sodium in E-Z-PAQUE?
No, alternatives like Iohexol differ in formulation and are not interchangeable for E-Z-PAQUE.
References
[1] United States Pharmacopeia. (2022). USP–Diatrizoate Sodium Monograph. USP.
[2] European Pharmacopoeia. (2022). Diatrizoate Sodium Monograph. EP.
[3] MarketWatch. (2022). Global API Market Report.
[4] PharmSource. (2021). API Supply Chain Analysis.
[5] Chinese Pharmacopoeia. (2022). Diatrizoate Sodium Standards.