Barium Sulfate, or simply Barite, is a radiopaque agent of low toxicity intended for use during fluoroscopy. The latter is provided due to the pronounced adhesive properties of this drug, which is part of the group of alkali metal s alts. It perfectly envelops the mucous surface of the human gastrointestinal tract and, by several times increasing the contrast, provides a very clear picture of the microrelief of the mucosa. In this case, the best image of the esophagus, duodenum and stomach is achieved immediately after the introduction of this agent inside, and the best image of the small intestine - after fifteen to ninety minutes.
Features of the release form
The X-ray contrast agent "Barium sulfate" is produced, the price of which is about fifteen rubles, in the form of a white powderwithout taste and smell. This drug does not dissolve in diluted acids, water, organic solvents or alkali. In addition, barium sulfate is not poisonous, unlike, for example, other barium s alts. By the way, for this very reason, in order to avoid poisoning, this agent used in X-ray diagnostics should not contain any impurities.
Area of use of the tool
This drug is prescribed, as a rule, for patients who are to be diagnosed with diseases affecting the gastrointestinal tract. It is especially good to use Barium Sulfate for X-rays of the upper small intestine.
Dose and use of the drug
It is recommended to take this drug strictly according to the doctor's prescription inside one hundred to one hundred and fifty grams. In this case, the radiopaque agent "Barium sulfate" can be used both in the form of a suspension, and in combination with semolina or jelly. It should be especially noted that on the eve of the procedure, doctors do not recommend eating any solid food. In the case of rectal administration of the drug, soft food is allowed, while in the morning (before fluoroscopy), suppositories with bisacodyl must be administered. After conducting a medical study in order to accelerate the evacuation of the "Barium sulfate" from the body, it will be necessary to consume as much water as possible.
List of contraindications
It is strictly forbidden to use this radiopaque preparation in case of establishedobstruction of the colon, as well as perforation of the gastrointestinal tract. People with individual intolerance to barium sulphate should also not take this drug. In addition, it is not recommended for people suffering from dehydration. In the case of an acute form of ulcerative colitis or acute diverticulitis, it is similarly worthwhile to refrain from taking the radiopaque agent "Barium sulfate". In addition, the list of strict contraindications includes diseases such as cystic fibrosis and bronchial asthma.
