Registered South Africa · SAHPRA

AXIM E-Z-CAT

BARIUM SULFATE

35/28/0126 INN generic

What it does

Barium is used in medical imaging to help visualize the gastrointestinal tract.

Commonly used for: gastrointestinal imaging, barium swallow, barium enema

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Plain-language summary for general understanding - not medical advice. Always follow your pharmacist/doctor.

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Medicine sourcing is available in Kenya only. We don't sell or dispense medicines - licensed pharmacies do.

Sourcing - Kenya only

Registration & product details

Registration no.
35/28/0126
Registration date
2001/06/12
Expiry date
-
Status
Registered
Active ingredient
BARIUM SULFATE
Dosage form
-
Strength
-
Pack size
-
Therapeutic class
-
RxNorm RxCUI
1311067
Manufacturer / MAH
-
Applicant / LTR
Axim Pharmaceuticals (Pty) Ltd
Country of origin
-

Source: South African Health Products Regulatory Authority · fetched 2026-04-15 21:14:42 · updated 2026-10-21 04:00:35

Disclaimer: This information is sourced from South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (South Africa). Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using any medication.

About this medicine

Barium is used in medical imaging to help visualize the gastrointestinal tract.

What it treats

  • gastrointestinal imaging
  • barium swallow
  • barium enema

How it works

Barium absorbs X-rays, which helps to create clear images of the digestive system during scans.

Who it's for

Barium is for individuals undergoing tests for digestive issues.

AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.

Clinical monograph: barium

BNF-referenced

Barium is a chemical element with the symbol Ba and atomic number 56. It is a soft, silvery-white alkaline earth metal that is not found free in nature but occurs in various minerals. Barium compounds, particularly barium sulfate, are commonly used in medical imaging as radiocontrast agents for X-ray imaging and CT scans of the gastrointestinal tract. Barium enhances the contrast of images, allowing for better visualization of the structures within the digestive system.

Indications

  • Barium swallow
  • Barium meal
  • Barium enema
  • Radiographic examination of the gastrointestinal tract

Dosage

Children: For paediatric patients, dosing varies based on age and weight. Refer to the BNF for Children for specific guidance on barium sulfate administration in children.

Adults: For a barium swallow, 200-300 mL of barium sulfate suspension may be administered. For a barium meal, a similar volume is used, depending on the specific requirements of the examination. A barium enema may require 1000-2000 mL. Refer to local protocols for specific dosing recommendations.

Mechanism of action

Barium sulfate works by obstructing the passage of X-rays, thereby appearing white on the radiograph. This property allows it to outline the contours of the gastrointestinal tract, facilitating the diagnosis of conditions such as obstructions, ulcers, and tumors. The barium molecule does not get absorbed by the gastrointestinal tract, ensuring that it primarily acts locally within the lumen.

Pharmacodynamics

Barium sulfate is inert and does not exhibit pharmacological effects beyond its role as a radiopaque agent. It is not absorbed into the bloodstream, which minimizes systemic effects. The contrast provided by barium sulfate allows for improved imaging of the luminal structures, aiding in diagnostic accuracy.

Pharmacokinetics

Barium sulfate is not absorbed through the gastrointestinal mucosa, and it remains in the gastrointestinal tract until it is excreted. The elimination half-life is not applicable in the conventional sense, as it is expelled from the body unchanged. The excretion occurs through feces following the imaging procedure.

Pregnancy

Barium is not absorbed systemically and is generally considered safe in pregnancy when used for diagnostic procedures.

Breast-feeding

Barium is not absorbed systemically and is generally considered safe during breastfeeding when used for diagnostic procedures.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.

Formulations

  • Barium sulfate suspension for oral use
  • Barium sulfate for rectal use
PubChem / pathway

AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.

Molecular reference: barium

PubChem CID 5355457

Molecular formula: Ba

Source: PubChem (NCBI) · pathways from PathBank, Reactome, WikiPathways & PharmGKB.