Barium sulphate - Indications, Dosage, Side Effects and Precautions

Information about Barium sulphate

Generic Name : Barium sulphate
Up-to-date prescription details regarding Barium sulphate are provided here.

Pronunciation : beuh·ree·uhm suhl·fayt

Learn the correct pronunciation of the Barium sulphate, understand it's uses, recommended dosages, its indications, how to take, when to take, when not to take, side effects, special precautions, warnings and its and its storage instructions.

You will also find a list of the medication's International and Indian brand or trade names, as well as its pricing information. For verification of the information presented on this page or for additional clarifications, it's advisable to consult your doctor.

Trade Names/Brand Names of Barium sulphate

India :

microbar, microbar-HD, microbar-CAT, VANILLA SILQ

International :

Bar-TestEntero, VUE-Z-Cat, Readi-Cat 2, Tagitol V, Varibar ®, Varibar® pudding, Volumen and E-Z-Hd, Acb, Baro-Cat, Epi-C, Epi-Stat, Esobar, Esopho-Cat Esophageal Cream, E-Z-Cat, E-Z-Hd, E-Z-Jug, E-Z-Paque,Gel-Unix 10

Overview of Barium sulphate

Barium sulphate, commonly known as E-Z-CAT DRY, is used as a radiographic medium in computed tomography (CT) scans for clear visualization of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract.

Why is Barium sulphate Prescribed? (Indications)

Barium sulphate is opaque to X-rays as it has a high molecular density.

Being a biologically inert substance, it is neither absorbed nor metabolized by our body; hence, it is utilized in CT scans of the gastrointestinal tract.

Barium sulphate rectal enemas are used for imaging of the colon and rectum. 

When should Barium sulphate not be taken? (Contraindications)

It is contraindicated for patients who are hypersensitive to barium sulphate or any of its ingredients.

It is contraindicated in patients with a history or risk of developing gastrointestinal tract perforation.

Avoid taking this medication in cases of intestinal obstruction.

How should Barium sulphate be taken?

Your doctor may instruct you not to eat or drink or to take laxatives before and after the scan. Make sure to follow those directions.

• Tablets:
  Do not crush or break the tablets; swallow them as a whole.


• Suspension:
For reconstitution:
Add the indicated amount of water, as per the label, into the mixing container.
Pour the contents into the container and close the lid.
Shake vigorously for 20 seconds.
Let it stand for 5 minutes and re-shake prior to use.


• Paste:
Taken orally with the help of a spoon or syringe.

Missed a Dose?

If you miss a dose, it is better to skip it and take the next dose correctly. Do not double the dose.

What are the side effects of Barium sulphate?

•  General: Headache, tiredness, weakness
•  Gastrointestinal: Constipation, nausea , stomach cramps, vomiting, and diarrhea
•  Skin: Pale skin
•  Others: Ringing in ears and sweating

What are the other precautions for Barium sulphate?

• Avoid using barium sulphate if you suffer from gastrointestinal blockage.


• Inform your doctor if you have any conditions that can hinder the passage of food through the intestine.


• Hypersensitive reactions may occur; consult your physician if you notice symptoms such as agitation, confusion, bluish skin, or a faster heartbeat.


• Monitoring aspiration is needed to avoid aspiration pneumonitis.


• The intake of barium sulphate may lead to severe constipation, which may be resolved by the intake of laxatives before and after the procedure.


• Keep yourself hydrated after the procedure.


• The barium sulphate enemas should be given by a trained person or healthcare professional.

What are the Drug Interactions of Barium sulphate?

Barium sulphate may interact with other medications. Discuss your medication schedule with your doctor to avoid drug interactions.

What are the storage conditions for Barium sulphate?

Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture.
Keep it out of the reach of children and pets.