Which type of agents tend to have higher osmolarity?

Ionic contrast agents tend to have higher osmolarity because they contain charged particles that increase the concentration of solutes in a solution. These agents are composed of iodine atoms bonded to organic compounds and dissociate into multiple particles in solution, which significantly raises the osmolarity. Higher osmolarity can lead to greater fluid shifts in the body, which may have implications for patients, particularly those who are dehydrated or have compromised kidney function.

In contrast, non-ionic contrast agents, while also iodine-based, do not dissociate in solution and remain as single particles, resulting in lower osmolarity. This characteristic makes non-ionic agents generally safer and more tolerate for patients, as they are associated with fewer side effects and less discomfort during administration. Other options like "all contrast agents" or "only liquid agents" do not accurately specify the inherent chemical properties that define osmolarity distinctions between these two main categories of contrast agents.