Barium Sulfate rectal enema

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What is Barium Sulfate rectal enema?

BARIUM SULFATE ENEMA (many brands) is a radiopaque agent used to diagnose problems with the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. When barium sulfate is given as an enema, the colon (large bowel or lower part of the intestine) becomes opaque or white so it can be photographed by x-rays. The barium enema procedure shows if anything is wrong inside the colon and how well the colon is working. Generic barium enemas are available.

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

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
• asthma
• dehydration
• eczema or a history of significant allergies
• intestinal blockage or perforation
• intestinal or stomach cancer
• an unusual reaction to Barium Sulfate, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding

How should this medicine be used?

Barium sulfate rectal suspension is given rectally as an enema. Your health care professional will tell you how to prepare for your test. If you have not received instructions or if you do not understand them, check with your health care professional before the test. You will not be able to eat for a certain period of time before the barium enema test. You may be allowed to drink small amounts of clear liquids. Before the enema is given, you may need to take a laxative to clean the bowel. Follow the directions of your health care professional.

Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What if I miss a dose?

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

What drug(s) may interact with Barium Sulfate?

• No drug interactions have been documented between barium sulfate and other medications. However, you may or may not be able to take your regular medications during the time of preparation for your procedure. Ask your health care professional.

Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.

What should I watch for while taking Barium Sulfate?

Follow all instructions of 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 of the colon. You may have light or white stools for a few days after the test; do not be concerned. Your stools will go back to normal color within a few days.

What side effects may I notice from receiving Barium Sulfate?

Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:
• bloating
• constipation (severe or continuing)
• cramping (severe)
• nausea or vomiting
• stomach or lower abdominal pain
• tightness in chest or troubled breathing
• wheezing

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

Where can I keep my medicine?

This usually does not apply; you will be given barium during the procedure.

Keep out of reach of children. Store at controlled room temperature between 15—30 degrees C (59—86 degrees F). Keep container tightly closed. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

Important Disclaimer: The drug information provided here is for educational purposes only. It is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the diagnosis, treatment and advice of a medical professional. This drug information does not cover all possible uses, precautions, side effects and interactions. It should not be construed to indicate that this or any drug is safe for you. Consult your medical professional for guidance before using any prescription or over the counter drugs.