Barium Sulfate oral suspension

August 29, 2018

Barium Sulfate oral suspension

What is this medicine?

BARIUM SULFATE (BA ree um SUL fate) is a contrast agent that is used to diagnose problems with the gastrointestinal tract.

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth. It is usually given by a health care professional in a hospital or clinic setting.

If you get this medicine at home, you will be taught how to prepare and give this medicine. Use exactly as directed.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. While this medicine may be prescribed for children for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

  • allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

  • breathing problems

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

  • constipation

  • diarrhea

  • nausea, vomiting

  • stomach pain

What may interact with this medicine?

Interactions are not expected. You may or may not be able to take your regular medications during the time of preparation for your procedure. Ask your doctor or health care professional for advice.

What if I miss a dose?

If you cannot follow the steps to prepare for your test, tell your health care professional. The test may need to be re-scheduled.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of reach of children.

See product for storage instructions. Each product may have different instructions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • blockage in your bowel

  • blood in your stool (black or tarry stools) or if you have blood in your vomit

  • cancer

  • difficulty swallowing

  • inflammatory bowel disease

  • lung or breathing disease, like asthma

  • stomach or intestine problems

  • an unusual or allergic reaction to barium sulfate, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

  • pregnant or trying to get pregnant

  • breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Follow all instructions from your health care professional to properly prepare for your test. Serious side effects of the test are rare, but report an unexplained fever, blood in the stool, or significant abdominal pain promptly.

After the test, drink plenty of water to help avoid constipation and to help flush the barium out. You may have light or white stools for a few days after the test. Your stools will go back to normal color within a few days.

Updated:  

August 29, 2018