To compare the side-effects and film contrast of jodamid and metrizoic acid 215 carotid angiography examinations were analyzed. To study the side-effects the pulse and blood pressure were recorded and the clinical condition of the patient was observed during the examination as well as on the subsequent day. Three neuroradiologists graded the film contrast without knowing the opinions of the others or which contrast medium had been used. No significant changes in pulse rate were recorded. A slight increase in blood pressure generally occurred immediately after the injection and a statistically significant but slight fall of blood pressure five to seven seconds after the injection. No differences were observed between the two contrast media. Injection into the common carotid artery lowered the blood pressure slightly more than injection into the internal carotid artery. No differences in clinical side-effects were noticed between the two contrast media. No irreversible side-effects were recorded. The film contrast of jodamid was significantly better than that of metrizoic acid.