Barium sulfate is a contrast agent. Barium sulfate works by coating the inside of your esophagus, stomach, or intestines which allows them to be seen more clearly on a CT scan or other radiologic (x-ray) examination.

Barium sulfate is used to help diagnose certain disorders of the esophagus, stomach, or intestines.

Barium sulfate may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

You should not use this medicine if you are allergic to barium sulfate or another contrast agent.

You may not be able to use barium sulfate if:

• you recently had surgery, an injury, or a biopsy involving your stomach, esophagus, or intestines;
• you recently had radiation treatment of your pelvic area;
• you recently had a perforation (a hole or tear) in your esophagus, stomach, or intestines;
• blockage in your digestive tract (stomach or intestines);
• you have stomach bleeding; or
• you have poor blood flow to your intestines (ischemia).

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

• asthma;
• food or drug allergies;
• slow digestion, or a blockage in your stomach or intestines;
• cystic fibrosis;
• a colostomy;
• rectal cancer;
• heart disease or high blood pressure;
• Hirschsprung's disease (a disorder of the intestines);
• fructose intolerance;
• a condition called pseudotumor cerebri (high pressure inside the skull that may cause headaches, vision loss, or other symptoms);
• a fistula (abnormal connection) between your esophagus and your trachea (windpipe);
• trouble swallowing, or if you have ever choked on food by accidentally inhaling it into your lungs;
• a rectal biopsy; or
• a latex allergy.

The radiation used in x-rays and CT scans may be harmful to an unborn baby. Before your medical test, tell your doctor if you are pregnant.

Before your medical test, tell your doctor if you are breastfeeding a baby.

Use Esopho-Cat (Oral) exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Call your doctor at once if you have:

• severe stomach pain;
• severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, or constipation;
• chest pain, trouble breathing or swallowing;
• ringing in your ears;
• sweating, confusion, fast heart rate; or
• pale skin, blue-colored skin, weakness.

Common side effects may include:

• mild stomach cramps;
• nausea, vomiting; or
• loose stools or mild constipation.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.