Which type of contrast media is considered most commonly used today due to its lower risk of adverse effects?

Non-ionic contrast media is widely regarded as the most commonly used type of contrast agent in radiology today, primarily because of its lower risk of adverse effects compared to other types. This is largely due to its chemical composition, which makes it less osmotically active than ionic and high-osmolar contrast media. As a result, non-ionic contrast agents tend to produce fewer side effects and a reduced incidence of allergic reactions or nephrotoxicity.

These agents are formulated to be less irritating and more tolerable for patients, which makes them preferable choices in various imaging procedures. The use of barium contrast media is specific to gastrointestinal studies and does not have the same broad application across various imaging modalities, such as CT or MRI, where non-ionic agents are more frequently employed.

In summary, non-ionic contrast media is favored in clinical practice for its safety profile and reduced likelihood of adverse reactions, enhancing patient comfort and outcomes during imaging studies.