What are the common side effects of barium sulfate. How is barium sulfate administered for medical imaging procedures. When should barium sulfate not be used for diagnostic tests. What precautions should be taken before and after receiving barium sulfate.

What is Barium Sulfate and How is it Used in Medical Imaging?

Barium sulfate is a contrast agent commonly used in medical imaging procedures to enhance the visibility of certain body structures. It works by coating the inside of organs and tissues, allowing them to be more clearly seen on X-rays or other imaging scans.

This substance is typically administered orally or rectally, depending on the specific area of the body being examined. Some common brand names for barium sulfate preparations include E-Z-Cat Dry, E-Z-HD, Readi-Cat 2, and Varibar.

Common Uses of Barium Sulfate

• Upper GI series to examine the esophagus, stomach, and small intestine
• Barium enema to evaluate the large intestine and colon
• CT scans of the abdomen and pelvis
• Swallowing studies to assess difficulties in swallowing

Proper Administration and Preparation for Barium Sulfate Procedures

Proper preparation is crucial for the success of barium sulfate imaging procedures. Healthcare professionals typically provide specific instructions to patients, which may include:

1. Fasting for a certain period before the procedure
2. Avoiding certain medications or supplements
3. Wearing comfortable clothing and removing metal objects
4. Following specific dietary restrictions

Are there any special considerations for administering barium sulfate? Yes, the administration of barium sulfate requires careful attention to detail. A trained healthcare professional will provide the contrast agent, usually in liquid or tablet form, just before the imaging procedure. The timing and method of administration may vary depending on the specific test being performed.

Potential Side Effects and Risks Associated with Barium Sulfate

While barium sulfate is generally considered safe, it can cause some side effects in certain individuals. Common side effects may include:

• Constipation
• Nausea
• Abdominal cramping
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting

Can barium sulfate cause severe constipation? Yes, in some cases, barium sulfate can lead to severe constipation. To mitigate this risk, healthcare providers often recommend drinking plenty of fluids after the procedure to help flush the barium from the body and maintain proper hydration.

Rare but Serious Side Effects

In rare instances, more serious side effects may occur, including:

• Allergic reactions
• Barium aspiration (inhalation into the lungs)
• Intestinal obstruction
• Perforation of the gastrointestinal tract

It’s crucial for patients to report any unusual symptoms or discomfort to their healthcare provider immediately.

Contraindications and Precautions for Barium Sulfate Use

Are there situations where barium sulfate should not be used? Absolutely. Certain conditions and factors may contraindicate the use of barium sulfate:

• Known allergy to barium or other contrast agents
• Suspected gastrointestinal perforation
• Recent gastrointestinal surgery
• Severe constipation or bowel obstruction
• Pregnancy (in some cases)

Healthcare providers should be informed of any existing medical conditions, allergies, or recent procedures before administering barium sulfate.

Special Populations

Extra caution is necessary when considering barium sulfate for certain groups:

• Pregnant women
• Breastfeeding mothers
• Elderly patients
• Individuals with compromised immune systems
• Patients with a history of gastrointestinal issues

Interactions with Other Medications and Substances

Can barium sulfate interact with other medications? While barium sulfate is not absorbed into the bloodstream, it can potentially interact with other substances in the gastrointestinal tract. Patients should inform their healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal products they are taking.

Some medications that may require special consideration include:

• Antacids
• Laxatives
• Certain antibiotics
• Medications that affect gastrointestinal motility

In some cases, healthcare providers may advise temporarily discontinuing certain medications before the barium sulfate procedure.

Post-Procedure Care and Follow-up

After receiving barium sulfate, proper post-procedure care is essential to minimize side effects and ensure accurate test results. Key aspects of post-procedure care include:

1. Increased fluid intake to help eliminate barium from the body
2. Gradual return to normal diet as advised by the healthcare provider
3. Monitoring bowel movements for any changes or irregularities
4. Following up with the healthcare provider to discuss test results

How long does it take for barium to be eliminated from the body? The elimination of barium can vary from person to person, but it typically takes 24 to 72 hours. Patients may notice white or light-colored stools during this period, which is normal and expected.

Managing Potential Side Effects

To help manage common side effects, patients can:

• Stay well-hydrated
• Engage in light physical activity, such as walking
• Use over-the-counter remedies for constipation or diarrhea, as recommended by their healthcare provider
• Apply a warm compress to alleviate abdominal discomfort

Alternatives to Barium Sulfate for Medical Imaging

While barium sulfate is a widely used contrast agent, alternatives exist for patients who cannot receive it or in specific diagnostic situations. Some alternatives include:

• Iodine-based contrast agents
• Gadolinium-based contrast agents (for MRI)
• Air or carbon dioxide (for certain gastrointestinal studies)
• Water-soluble contrast agents

The choice of contrast agent depends on various factors, including the specific imaging procedure, patient characteristics, and potential contraindications.

Comparing Barium Sulfate to Other Contrast Agents

How does barium sulfate compare to other contrast agents? Each type of contrast agent has its own advantages and limitations:

• Barium sulfate: Excellent for gastrointestinal studies, non-allergenic for most patients
• Iodine-based agents: Useful for vascular studies, but may cause allergic reactions
• Gadolinium-based agents: Primarily used in MRI, but may pose risks for patients with kidney problems
• Air/CO2: Minimally invasive but limited in application

Healthcare providers carefully consider these factors when selecting the most appropriate contrast agent for each patient and procedure.

Advancing Technologies in Medical Imaging and Contrast Agents

The field of medical imaging is continually evolving, with new technologies and improved contrast agents being developed. Some recent advancements include:

• Dual-energy CT imaging
• Nanoparticle-based contrast agents
• Molecular imaging techniques
• Artificial intelligence-assisted image analysis

These innovations aim to enhance diagnostic accuracy, reduce radiation exposure, and minimize potential side effects associated with contrast agents.

Future Directions in Contrast Agent Development

Researchers are exploring various avenues to improve contrast agents, including:

• Targeted contrast agents for specific tissues or conditions
• Multimodal contrast agents compatible with different imaging techniques
• Biodegradable and eco-friendly contrast materials
• Personalized contrast agents tailored to individual patient characteristics

These advancements may lead to more precise diagnoses, reduced side effects, and improved patient experiences in medical imaging procedures.

As medical imaging technology continues to advance, the role of contrast agents like barium sulfate remains crucial in providing clear and accurate diagnostic information. While side effects and contraindications exist, proper administration, patient preparation, and post-procedure care can help minimize risks and optimize the benefits of these important diagnostic tools. Patients should always consult with their healthcare providers to understand the specific requirements and potential risks associated with their imaging procedures.

Barium sulfate (By mouth) | Drug Notes | Health Information

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Barium (BAR-ee-um)

Used to help view images of the body during a medical test or imaging procedure.

Brand Name(s):

E-Z-Cat Dry, E-Z-Disk, E-Z-HD, E-Z-Paste, Entero VU, Liquid E-Z-Paque, Readi-Cat 2, Readi-Cat 2 Smoothie, Tagitol V, Varibar, Volumen

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

This medicine is not right for everyone. You should not receive it if you had an allergic reaction to barium.

How to Use This Medicine:

Cream, Liquid, Tablet

• A nurse or other trained health professional will give you this medicine. You will swallow the barium liquid just before your scan or procedure.
• Drink plenty of liquids after the test to help clear the barium from your body and to keep you hydrated. Barium may cause severe constipation.
• Follow all instructions you are given for your scan or procedure. Your doctor may tell you not to eat or drink anything the night before your test. Barium will work better if your stomach and bowels are empty.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have asthma, cancer, heart disease, trouble swallowing, or an allergy to other contrast agents. Tell your doctor about any digestion problems, including bleeding, ulcer, blockage, narrowing, diverticulitis, or recent surgery, trauma, or radiation treatment.
• This medicine may cause constipation, which could be severe.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
• Chest pain, trouble breathing, or coughing up blood
• Fever, chills, cough, fast heartbeat, shallow breathing
• Sudden, severe stomach pain, nausea, vomiting with fever
• Trouble swallowing

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.

You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088

Last Updated: 1/27/2017

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only — they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites.

Truven Health Analytics. All rights reserved.

Barium: Pediatric Medication | Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center

Pediatric Medication

This information from Lexicomp^® explains what you need to know about this medication, including what it’s used for, how to take it, its side effects, and when to call your healthcare provider.

Brand Names: US

E-Z-Disk [DSC]; E-Z-HD; E-Z-Paque; E-Z-Paste; Entero VU [DSC]; Liquid E-Z-Paque; Liquid Polibar Plus; NeuLumEX; Readi-Cat 2; Tagitol V; Vanilla SilQ; Varibar Honey [DSC]; Varibar Nectar; Varibar Pudding [DSC]; Varibar Thin Honey [DSC]; Varibar Thin Liquid; VoLumen [DSC]

What is this drug used for?

• It is used before an x-ray or other test like it.

What do I need to tell the doctor BEFORE my child takes this drug?

All products:

• If your child is allergic to this drug; any part of this drug; or any other drugs, foods, or substances. Tell the doctor about the allergy and what signs your child had.
• If your child has had any of these health problems: Blockage, hole, bleeding, injury, burn, or blood flow problems in the GI (gastrointestinal) tract; slow-moving GI (gastrointestinal) tract; or a problem called toxic megacolon.
• If your child has recently had a hole in the GI (gastrointestinal) tract, GI surgery, or radiation to the pelvic area.

All oral products:

• If your child has trouble swallowing or has inhaled food, liquids, saliva, or vomit into the lungs.

Liquid (suspension):

• If your child is not able to break down fructose.

This is not a list of all drugs or health problems that interact with this drug.

Tell the doctor and pharmacist about all of your child’s drugs (prescription or OTC, natural products, vitamins) and health problems. You must check to make sure that it is safe to give this drug with all of your child’s other drugs and health problems. Do not start, stop, or change the dose of any drug your child takes without checking with the doctor.

What are some things I need to know or do while my child takes this drug?

All products:

• Tell all of your child’s health care providers that your child is taking this drug. This includes your child’s doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists.
• This drug stops many drugs from getting into the body. If your child takes other drugs, check with the doctor to see if you need to give them at some other time than this drug.
• To prevent constipation or bowel block from this drug, the doctor may have you give your child a laxative like milk of magnesia or lactulose after using this drug. Follow what the doctor has told you.
• Have your child drink lots of noncaffeine liquids after the test is over unless told to drink less liquid by the doctor.
• Rarely, this drug may leak into the blood vessels from the GI (gastrointestinal) tract. Side effects have included blood clots and very low blood pressure. Sometimes, this can be deadly. If you have questions, talk with the doctor.

If your child is pregnant or breast-feeding a baby:

• Talk with the doctor if your child is pregnant, becomes pregnant, or is breast-feeding a baby. You will need to talk about the benefits and risks to your child and the baby.

Capsules:

• You may need to avoid giving your child laxatives, enemas, or suppositories for some time before giving this drug. Follow what the doctor has told you.

Liquid (suspension):

• Some products have sorbitol in them. Very bad health problems like low blood sugar, bleeding, and kidney failure have happened when people who are not able to break down fructose took a product with sorbitol in it. Talk with the doctor.

What are some side effects that I need to call my child’s doctor about right away?

WARNING/CAUTION: Even though it may be rare, some people may have very bad and sometimes deadly side effects when taking a drug. Tell your child’s doctor or get medical help right away if your child has any of the following signs or symptoms that may be related to a very bad side effect:

• Signs of an allergic reaction, like rash; hives; itching; red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever; wheezing; tightness in the chest or throat; trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking; unusual hoarseness; or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat. Rarely, some allergic reactions have been life-threatening.
• Severe constipation or stomach pain. These may be signs of a severe bowel problem.

What are some other side effects of this drug?

All drugs may cause side effects. However, many people have no side effects or only have minor side effects. Call your child’s doctor or get medical help if any of these side effects or any other side effects bother your child or do not go away:

All oral products:

• Diarrhea, upset stomach, or throwing up.
• Stomach cramps.

These are not all of the side effects that may occur. If you have questions about side effects, call your child’s doctor. Call your child’s doctor for medical advice about side effects.

You may report side effects to your national health agency.

How is this drug best given?

Give this drug as ordered by your child’s doctor. Read all information given to you. Follow all instructions closely.

Tablets:

• Have your child swallow whole. Do not let your child chew, break, or crush.

Capsules:

• Have your child swallow whole. Do not let your child chew, break, or crush.
• If your child cannot swallow this drug whole, you may sprinkle the contents on applesauce. If you do this, have your child swallow the mixture right away. Do not store the mixture for future use.

Liquid (suspension):

• Shake well before use.
• Most of the time, this drug is taken by mouth. Give as you have been told by the doctor.
• Some brands of this drug are to be taken with food. Some brands may be taken with or without food. Ask the pharmacist if you need to give your child’s brand with food.
• Some products may be given as an enema. If your child is using this drug as an enema, it will be given rectally by the doctor.

What do I do if my child misses a dose?

• Call your child’s doctor to find out what to do.

How do I store and/or throw out this drug?

• Most of the time, this drug will be given in a hospital or doctor’s office. If stored at home, follow how to store as you were told by the doctor.
• Keep all drugs in a safe place. Keep all drugs out of the reach of children and pets.
• Throw away unused or expired drugs. Do not flush down a toilet or pour down a drain unless you are told to do so. Check with your pharmacist if you have questions about the best way to throw out drugs. There may be drug take-back programs in your area.

General drug facts

• If your child’s symptoms or health problems do not get better or if they become worse, call your child’s doctor.
• Do not share your child’s drug with others and do not give anyone else’s drug to your child.
• Some drugs may have another patient information leaflet. If you have any questions about this drug, please talk with your child’s doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other health care provider.
• If you think there has been an overdose, call your poison control center or get medical care right away. Be ready to tell or show what was taken, how much, and when it happened.

Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer

This generalized information is a limited summary of diagnosis, treatment, and/or medication information. It is not meant to be comprehensive and should be used as a tool to help the user understand and/or assess potential diagnostic and treatment options. It does NOT include all information about conditions, treatments, medications, side effects, or risks that may apply to a specific patient. It is not intended to be medical advice or a substitute for the medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment of a health care provider based on the health care provider’s examination and assessment of a patient’s specific and unique circumstances. Patients must speak with a health care provider for complete information about their health, medical questions, and treatment options, including any risks or benefits regarding use of medications. This information does not endorse any treatments or medications as safe, effective, or approved for treating a specific patient. UpToDate, Inc. and its affiliates disclaim any warranty or liability relating to this information or the use thereof. The use of this information is governed by the Terms of Use, available at https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/know/clinical-effectiveness-terms.

Last Reviewed Date

2022-07-07

Copyright

© 2023 UpToDate, Inc. and its affiliates and/or licensors. All rights reserved.

Last Updated

Monday, December 12, 2022

Active ingredient BARIUM SULFATE* (BARII SULFAS*)

• Pharmacological properties
• Indications BARIUM SULFATE*
• Application of BARIUM SULFATE*
• Contraindications
• Side effects
• Special instructions
• Diagnosis
• Recommended alternatives
• Trade names

Medicines containing the active substance BARIUM SULFATE*

Pharmacy prices

X-ray contrast agent. Due to its pronounced adhesive properties, an aqueous suspension of barium sulfate well envelops the mucosa of the gastrointestinal tract, provides a clear contrast of the microrelief of the mucosa and makes it possible to obtain a high quality x-ray image. Non-toxic, not absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract. Completely eliminated in 24-48 hours

for x-ray examination of the esophagus, stomach, small and large intestines.

Suspension is prepared with distilled water immediately before use. For x-ray examination of the esophagus, stomach and small intestine, it is taken orally, for irrigoscopy, it is administered rectally.

Inside for x-ray examination of the esophagus, stomach and small intestine is used as a paste or suspension. For tight filling of the esophagus, a 50% paste is used. Dosed with spoons. 1 tablespoon contains 30 g of paste (15 g of barium sulfate). If necessary, the paste can be diluted by adding 70 ml of distilled water at room temperature to 180 g of paste. For fluoroscopy of the esophagus, the dose of undiluted paste is 120-180 g, diluted with water in a ratio of 3: 1 – 200-250 ml. For X-ray examination of the stomach and small intestine, a suspension is prepared (from powder or paste). To prepare a suspension from a paste, 70-80 ml of boiled water is added in portions to 240 g in 2-3 doses and thoroughly mixed, 300-450 ml is used for one study of the stomach and small intestine. To prepare a suspension from a powder, mix it with warm boiled or distilled water in a ratio of 2:1 to 4:1 for adults and from 1:1.5 to 1:2 for children and mix thoroughly for 4-5 minutes (possibly with using a mixer), the dose for adults per study is 300 ml, for children – 100 ml.

A more dilute suspension is used rectally for irrigoscopy: 700–800 ml of water is added to 240–360 g of paste; for one study – 1000-1500 ml.

hypersensitivity to barium sulfate, perforation of the esophagus, stomach or intestines, esophagotracheal fistulas, swallowing disorders, intestinal obstruction, constipation, stenosis of the esophagus, bleeding from the gastrointestinal tract, condition after surgical interventions on the gastrointestinal tract.

barium appendicitis, constipation, allergic reactions. When using gas-forming substances in the process of double contrasting, unpleasant sensations in the epigastric region may occur.

for double contrasting in adults and older children (double contrasting is not advisable in younger children), immediately before the study, the patient is given, depending on age, 1.5–3.5 g of sodium bicarbonate (in solution or powder ), which is quickly washed down with a solution of 1–3 g of citric acid. The total volume of distilled water should not exceed 7–15 ml. Can be used to study intestinal motility in children. After oral administration, the suspension passes through the small intestine in children in 1–2 hours, which makes it possible to study the structure and motor function of the small intestine in a short time and thereby abandon special techniques for studying it. The duration of the passage of the suspension through the colon is 4 hours, which significantly reduces the time of examination of the intestine and reduces the radiation exposure by 2 times.

Description of BARIUM SULPHATE indications, dosages, contraindications of the active substance BARIUM SULPHATE