The Basics
What is Barium Sulfate?
A radiographic contrast agent used to help diagnose or find problems in the esophagus, stomach, and bowels.
Brand names for Barium Sulfate
Bar-Test, Entero Vu, E-Z-Cat Dry, E-Z-Disk, Tagitol V, Varibar, Volumen
How Barium Sulfate is classified
Contrast Media, Barium Compounds
Barium Sulfate During Pregnancy
Barium Sulfate pregnancy category
Category N/ANote that the FDA has deprecated the use of pregnancy categories, so for some medications, this information isn’t available. We still think it’s useful to list historical info, however, given what a common proxy this has been in the past.
What we know about taking Barium Sulfate while pregnant
TAGITOLVis not absorbed systemically following oral administration, and maternal use is not expected to result in fetal exposure to the drug [see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY].
Taking Barium Sulfate While Breastfeeding
What are recommendations for lactation if you're taking Barium Sulfate?
Because barium sulfate is not absorbed after oral or rectal administration, it will not enter the milk, reach the bloodstream of the infant or cause any adverse effects in breastfed infants. No special precautions are required.
Maternal / infant drug levels
Because barium sulfate is not absorbed after oral or rectal administration, it will not enter the milk, reach the bloodstream of the infant or cause any adverse effects in breastfed infants. No special precautions are required.
Possible effects of Barium Sulfate on milk supply
Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.
Possible alternatives to Barium Sulfate
None listed
List of References
Lactation sources: Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed) [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): National Library of Medicine (US); 2006-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK501922/None listed
Disclaimer: This material is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult your healthcare provider with any questions.
