Side Effects of barium sulfate: A Synthesis of Findings from 25 Studies

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Original Abstract of the Article

Major Findings

Barium sulfate is a commonly used contrast agent in medical imaging, particularly for gastrointestinal studies. Research has revealed several potential side effects associated with barium sulfate, including those related to its impact on the digestive system and its use in specific medical procedures. For example, 5 highlighted the potential for barium sulfate to contribute to drug-induced gastrointestinal obstruction and perforation. Furthermore, 20 found that barium sulfate injections in a rat model of osteoradionecrosis led to decreased bone vascularization and osteopenia, highlighting its potential impact on bone health.

Reasons for Side Effects

The side effects of barium sulfate are largely attributed to its physical properties. Barium sulfate is insoluble in water, meaning it does not dissolve readily in the body's fluids. This insolubility can lead to it accumulating in the digestive tract, potentially causing issues such as constipation, intestinal obstruction, and even perforation. The nature of barium sulfate also impacts its use in specific procedures, like radiation therapy, where it can negatively affect bone health.

Common Side Effects

Constipation

Barium sulfate's tendency to remain in the digestive tract can lead to constipation, as seen in 5 . This is a common side effect often reported after barium sulfate-containing contrast agent use.

Abdominal Pain

Barium sulfate can irritate the gastrointestinal tract, leading to abdominal pain, a common side effect noted in 5 .

Nausea and Vomiting

Barium sulfate can induce gastrointestinal discomfort, nausea, and vomiting. These side effects are frequently reported after using barium sulfate-containing contrast agents, as documented in 5 .

Intestinal Obstruction

The accumulation of barium sulfate in the intestines can obstruct bowel movement, leading to intestinal obstruction. This serious complication has been reported in 5 after barium sulfate-containing contrast agent use.

Intestinal Perforation

The irritation caused by barium sulfate can contribute to inflammation and, in severe cases, perforation of the intestinal wall. 5 reports cases of intestinal perforation following barium sulfate-containing contrast agent use.

Allergic Reactions

Although rare, allergic reactions to barium sulfate have been documented, as seen in 1 . This highlights the importance of informing your physician about any allergies you may have before undergoing procedures involving barium sulfate.

Measures to Mitigate Side Effects

Constipation

To reduce the risk of constipation, it is crucial to increase fluid intake and consume fiber-rich foods prior to procedures involving barium sulfate. Staying hydrated and engaging in light exercise after the procedure can also aid in preventing constipation.

Abdominal Pain

Pre-procedure use of pain medication can help manage abdominal pain associated with barium sulfate. After the procedure, pain relievers can be continued as needed.

Nausea and Vomiting

Taking antiemetics before the procedure can help alleviate nausea and vomiting caused by barium sulfate. If needed, antiemetics can be continued after the procedure.

Intestinal Obstruction and Perforation

Prior to any procedure involving barium sulfate, it is crucial to inform your doctor about any previous gastrointestinal issues or medications you are taking. This information helps physicians assess potential risks and take appropriate precautions.

Allergic Reactions

Always inform your doctor about any allergies you have before undergoing procedures involving barium sulfate. In some cases, taking steroids or other medications before the procedure can help prevent allergic reactions.

Research Comparisons

Research Commonalities

Several studies have consistently demonstrated the potential for barium sulfate to cause side effects such as constipation, abdominal pain, and nausea. Additionally, research suggests a possible increased risk of intestinal obstruction and perforation.

Research Differences

The concentration and formulation of barium sulfate, patient demographics (age and health status), and specific examination methods varied across studies. These differences can influence the reported incidence and severity of side effects.

Real-Life Applications and Considerations

While barium sulfate is a valuable tool in medical imaging, it is crucial to understand the potential for side effects. Before any procedure using barium sulfate, be open and honest with your physician about your health history and any medications you are taking. After the procedure, monitor your health closely and seek immediate medical attention if you experience any unusual symptoms.

Current Research Limitations

Research on the side effects of barium sulfate remains incomplete. Further research is needed to address the long-term effects of using barium sulfate, particularly for prolonged periods.

Future Research Directions

Continued research is essential for a more comprehensive understanding of the side effects associated with barium sulfate. This includes conducting long-term follow-up studies and animal trials to assess its long-term impact. The development of alternative, safer contrast agents is also a significant area of focus for future research.

Conclusion

While barium sulfate is a valuable contrast agent in medical imaging, it is important to be aware of the associated side effects. Open communication with your physician about your health history and allergies is critical before any procedure involving barium sulfate. After the procedure, monitor your health closely and seek prompt medical advice if you experience any unusual symptoms.

Literature analysis of 25 papers
Positive Content
19
Neutral Content
1
Negative Content
5
Article Type
9
0
0
1
25
1.

Anaphylactoid reactions with gastrointestinal contrast media.

Author: SkucasJ

Anaphylactoid reactions

Anaphylactoid reactions to gastrointestinal contrast media are rare. There is no conclusive evidence that atopic individuals or those with asthma are more susceptible. Patients with a history of severe allergic reactions should avoid similar agents.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
CommentA short article/note that provides an opinion/perspective/interpretation on a published paper/topic.

Language : English

2.

Clinical bronchography in the horse: development of a method using barium sulphate powder.

Author: O'CallaghanM W, SandersonG N

Safe bronchography
Minimal cellular response

Bronchography with powder insufflation of barium sulphate is a safe and accurate method for investigating bronchial conditions in horses.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

3.

Prevention of complications and symptomatic recurrences in diverticular disease with mesalazine: a 12-month follow-up.

Author: ComparatoGiuseppe, FanigliuloLibera, CavallaroLucas G, AragonaGiovanni, CavestroGiulia Martina, IoriVeronica, MainoMarta, MazzocchiGiancarlo, MuzzettoPierantonio, CollaGiancarlo, SianesiMario, FranzéAngelo, MarioFrancesco Di

Diverticular disease relief
Side effects

This study evaluated the efficacy of mesalazine for symptomatic relief of uncomplicated diverticular disease of the colon. Cyclic administration of mesalazine was effective in reducing symptoms, with mesalazine 800 mg bid showing greater improvement than other treatment schedules.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

4.

A randomized blinded clinical trial of a rapid colonic lavage solution (Golytely) compared with standard preparation for colonoscopy and barium enema.

Author: ErnstoffJ J, HowardD A, MarshallJ B, JumshydA, McCulloughA J

Improved visualization
Optimal exams
Patient preference
Reduced preparation time

Golytely, an electrolyte-polyethylene glycol solution, was more effective than standard bowel preparations for colonoscopy, allowing better visualization of colonic mucosa and requiring less preparation time. It was well tolerated with no notable side effects.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.

Language : English

5.

Analysis of Drug-Induced Gastrointestinal Obstruction and Perforation Using the Japanese Adverse Drug Event Report Database.

Author: SatakeRiko, MatsumotoKiyoka, TanakaMizuki, MukaiRirika, ShimadaKazuyo, YoshidaYu, InoueMisaki, HasegawaShiori, IguchiKazuhiro, IkesueHiroaki, ShimizuShinya, NishidaShohei, SuzukiAkio, HashidaTohru, NakamuraMitsuhiro

Gastrointestinal obstruction
Gastrointestinal perforation

This study analyzed data from the Japanese Adverse Drug Event Report (JADER) database to evaluate the onset profile of drug-induced gastrointestinal obstruction (DIGO) and perforation (DIGP). The findings identified specific drug categories with a higher risk of DIGs and highlighted the importance of monitoring for these adverse events, which can have serious consequences.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

6.

Comparison of a new colon lavage solution (Golytely-RSS) with a standard preparation for air-contrast barium enema.

Author: TomlinsonT L, DiPalmaJ A, ManganoF A

Effective colon cleansing
May be preferable for renal/cardiovascular patients
Unpleasant side effects
Unwillingness to repeat

Golytely-RSS, a new formulation of Golytely, is an acceptable alternative to standard colon-cleansing methods for air-contrast barium enema. However, side effects were reported more frequently in the Golytely-RSS group.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.

Language : English

7.

Comparison of the Efficacy of Diluted Polyethylene Glycol and Low-Density (0.1% w/v) Barium Sulfate Suspension for CT Enterography.

Author: KimYeon Jung, KimSeung Ho, BaekTae Wook, ParkHyungin

Bowel distension
CTE preparation

Diluted PEG solution showed comparable bowel distension and no immediate side effects compared to LDBSS for CTE preparation.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

8.

Cisapride or metoclopramide to accelerate small bowel transit during barium follow-through examination?

Author: HareC, HalliganS, BartramC I, PlattK, RaleighG

Accelerated bowel transit
Unpredictable action

Cisapride, commonly used to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease, is a viable alternative to metoclopramide for accelerating small bowel transit during barium follow-through examinations.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.

Language : English

9.

Cost-effectiveness and patient tolerance of low-attenuation oral contrast material: milk versus VoLumen.

Author: KooChi Wan, Shah-PatelLisa R, BaerJeanne W, FragerDavid H

Improved bowel distention
Improved bowel wall visualization
Abdominal discomfort
Cramping
Diarrhea
Nausea

Whole milk was comparable to VoLumen in terms of bowel distention and bowel wall visualization, but it was cheaper, more patient-acceptable, and had fewer adverse symptoms.

Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.

Language : English

10.

Detailed per-oral small bowel examination vs. enteroclysis. Part I: Expenditures and radiation exposure.

Author: OttD J, ChenY M, GelfandD W, Van SwearingenF, MunitzH A

Accurate
Less time-consuming
More radiation exposure

Enteroclysis, a procedure for imaging the small bowel, was associated with longer room time, more side effects, and higher radiation exposure than a per-oral small bowel series.

Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

11.

Evaluation of low-density neutral oral contrast material in PET/CT for tumor imaging: results of a randomized clinical trial.

Author: OteroHansel J, YapJeffrey T, PatakMichael A, ErturkSukru M, IsraelDavid A, JohnstonCiaran J, SakellisChris, RybickiFrank J, Van den AbbeeleAnnick D, RosPablo R

Bowel visualization
No side effects
None mentioned

Using low-density neutral oral contrast material for CT during combined FDG PET/CT studies significantly improves visualization of the bowel structures compared with no contrast material without causing side effects or clinically detectable errors in the attenuation correction of the FDG PET study.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

15.

Imaging diagnosis--duodenobiliary reflux of barium sulfate during esophagogastrography in a dog.

Author: ShaikhLayla, SharmaAjay, SecrestScott

Duodenobiliary reflux

This is the first case report of duodenobiliary reflux of barium in a dog.

Case ReportsIn the medical field, a report that describes in detail a unique case, an unusual medical condition, or the effect of a treatment. Provides new insights and possibilities for treatment through individual patient cases.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

16.

Evanescent colitis.

Author: HeronH C, KhubchandaniI T, TrimpiH D, SheetsJ A, StasikJ J

Abdominal pain
Colonic ischemia
Hematochia

Evanescent colitis is a self-limiting condition characterized by abrupt onset of abdominal pain, diarrhea, and hematochezia, with spontaneous resolution within days. It typically occurs in younger individuals without underlying vascular disease, and may be associated with oral contraceptive use.

Case ReportsIn the medical field, a report that describes in detail a unique case, an unusual medical condition, or the effect of a treatment. Provides new insights and possibilities for treatment through individual patient cases.
Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

17.

Tc-99m-PEG-Liposomes for the evaluation of colitis in Crohn's disease.

Author: BrouwersA H, De JongD J, DamsE T, OyenW J, BoermanO C, LavermanP, NaberT H, StormG, CorstensF H

Crohn's colitis imaging
Dyspnea
Facial erythema

99mTc-PEG-liposome scintigraphy can be used to determine the extent of Crohn's colitis non-invasively. However, the study was prematurely terminated due to unacceptable side effects in 3 out of 9 patients, which consisted of dyspnea and facial erythema.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

19.

Evaluation of "Gastromiro" for bowel opacification during computed tomography: comparison with diatrizoate and barium sulphate.

Author: DoyleG J, O'DonnellS C, McDonaldJ R, MurthyL N, KeirM J, WrightA R

Bowel contrast agent

A new oral formulation of iopamidol, 'Gastromiro', was evaluated as a bowel contrast agent during abdominal computed tomography (CT) and compared to existing agents.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.

Language : English

20.

Micro-CT Analysis of Radiation-Induced Osteopenia and Bone Hypovascularization in Rat.

Author: MichelGuillaume, BleryPauline, PiletPaul, GuicheuxJérôme, WeissPierre, MalardOlivier, EspitalierFlorent

Bone tissue engineering
Hypovascularization
Mandibular osteoradionecrosis
Osteopenia
Spontaneous fractures

Radiation therapy for carcinomas of the upper aerodigestive tract can cause mandibular osteoradionecrosis (ORN). This study found that irradiation significantly decreased intraosseous vascularization, cortical bone thickness, and total bone volume in a rat model of ORN.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

22.

Current thinking on the role of surgery in gastroesophageal reflux.

Author: JohnsonD G

Gastroesophageal reflux treatment
Side effects

Gastroesophageal reflux is common in infants and children. Surgery is sometimes required for complications such as recurrent infections or nutritional wasting.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

23.

Comparison of two oral evacuants (Citromag and Golytely) for bowel preparation before barium enema.

Author: ChanC C, LokeT K, ChanJ C, LoS S

Improved bowel preparation
Unacceptable taste

Golytely was found to be more effective than Citromag for bowel preparation before barium enema examination. While both medications had similar side effects, 45.5% of patients found Golytely's taste unacceptable compared to 25.9% for Citromag. Golytely resulted in less fecal residue and better mucosal coating by barium (p < 0.05).

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.

Language : English

24.

Head-to-head comparison of oral contrast agents for cross-sectional enterography: small bowel distention, timing, and side effects.

Author: YoungBrett M, FletcherJoel G, BooyaFargol, PaulsenScott, FidlerJeff, JohnsonC Daniel, HuprichJames, BarlowJohn, TroutAndrew

Bowel distention
Drinking difficulty
Side effects

Polyethylene glycol and low-concentration barium distended small bowel better than water and methylcellulose.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

25.

Computerized planimetry in the objective assessment of the antispasmodic effect of Zamifenacin in double contrast barium enemas.

Author: HughesT, WrightA R, OwenJ P, KeirM J

Zamifenacin, a gut-specific muscarinic receptor antagonist, was found to be safe and well tolerated but ineffective as an antispasmodic for double contrast barium enema examination at the prescribed dose.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

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