High-osmolar
A solution with a high osmolality or concentration of dissolved particles (salts, sugars, proteins, acids etc.). Used to describe contrast media (High-osmolar contrast media = HOCM) with a significantly higher particle concentration than in body fluids (5-7 times). Such contrast media may cause pain and heat when injected and far more than low-osmolar contrast media (LOCM). Other undesirable reactions are also more severe and more frequent. See also terms ionic and low-osmolar, non-ionic, isotonicity and dimeric.
GE Healthcare Glossary