Viewgut

• X-ray imaging
• CT scan
• Imaging of the GI tract
• Diagnosis of esophagus, stomach, and intestinal diseases

Barium sulfate increases the absorption of x-rays as they pass through the body, thus delineating body structures in which barium sulfate is localized. Barium sulfate is an insoluble, inert radiopaque material which is not absorbed or metabolized and is eliminated intact from the body in a manner similar to other non-absorbed inorganic materials. Excretion rate is a function of gastrointestinal transit time.

The dose depends on the area under examination, the equipment, and the technique employed. Barium Sulphate is available as a powder (to be mixed with water), suspension (liquid), paste, and tablet. Dosage varies for adults and children and should be taken as directed by a physician.

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Abdominal cramping
• Severe stomach pain
• Constipation
• Sweating
• Ringing in ears
• Confusion
• Fast heart rate
• Pale skin
• Weakness

Serious complications (rare): Aspiration pneumonitis, barium sulfate impaction, granuloma formation, intravasation, embolization, peritonitis following intestinal perforation, vasovagal and syncopal episodes, fatalities (approximately 1 in 10,000,000).

[CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR] Safe use of barium sulfate during pregnancy has not been established (Category C). Elective radiography of the abdomen is considered contraindicated during pregnancy. Use only if possible benefits outweigh the potential risks.

• Special attention required in patients with history of bronchial asthma, atopy (hay fever, eczema), or previous reaction to contrast agents
• Caution in severely debilitated patients, patients with marked hypertension or advanced cardiac disease
• Caution in patients with history of food aspiration; if aspirated into larynx, discontinue immediately
• Rehydrate the patient quickly after the examination
• Use mild laxatives (milk of magnesia or lactulose) to prevent constipation
• Caution in patients with complete or nearly complete obstruction of the GI tract

Overdose may cause severe stomach cramps and diarrhea. In rare instances, a total dose of 30 ounces (900 mL) of a 115% w/v barium sulfate suspension has been reported to cause these symptoms, which resolve spontaneously and are not life-threatening.

Store at 25°C.