Barium Sulfate

What it is and how it works

Mechanism of Action Due to its high atomic number, barium (the active ingredient in VARIBAR PUDDING) is opaque to x-rays and therefore acts as a positive contrast agent for radiographic studies.

Mechanism class: X-Ray Contrast Activity

Indications

is indicated for modified barium swallow examinations to evaluate the oral and pharyngeal function and morphology in adult and pediatric patients 6 months of age and older. VARIBAR PUDDING is a radiographic contrast agent indicated for use in modified barium swallow examinations to evaluate the oral and pharyngeal function and morphology in adult and pediatric patients 6 months of age and older

Dosage and administration (summary)

For oral use only – administered by syringe or spoon Adults: 5 mL Pediatric patients: 1-3 mL Multiple doses may be administered Maximum cumulative dose : 30 mL Recommended Dosing The recommended oral dose of VARIBAR PUDDING delivered by oral syringe or spoon: Adults 5 mL Pediatric patients 1-3 mL During a single modified barium swallow examination, multiple doses of VARIBAR PUDDING may be administered as appropriate, to assess the patient during multiple swallows and different radiographic views. The maximum cumulative dose is 30 mL oral. Once opened, write the discard after date on the immediate container label. Discard any unused product after 21 days.

Contraindications

is contraindicated in patients with: - known or suspected perforation of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract; - known obstruction of the GI tract; - high risk of GI perforation such as those with a recent GI perforation, acute GI hemorrhage or ischemia, toxic megacolon, severe ileus, post GI surgery or biopsy, acute GI injury or burn, or recent radiotherapy to the pelvis; - high risk for aspiration such as those with known or suspected tracheo-esophageal fistula or obtundation.

Warnings and precautions

Hypersensitivity reactions: Emergency equipment and trained personnel should be immediately available Intra-abdominal leakage: May occur with conditions which increase the risk for perforation such as – carcinomas, GI fistula, Inflammatory bowel disease, gastric or duodenal ulcer, appendicitis, diverticulitis, or severe stenosis or obstructing lesions of the GI tract Obstruction: Patients should maintain adequate hydration in days following barium sulfate procedure to avoid obstruction or impaction by baroliths Aspiration Pneumonitis: Aspiration may occur during the modified barium swallow exa…

Pregnancy

Pregnancy Risk Summary VARIBAR PUDDING is not absorbed systemically following oral administration, and maternal use is not expected to result in fetal exposure to the drug.

Storage and supply

Storage and Handling Store at USP controlled room temperature 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Protect from freezing. Once opened, VARIBAR PUDDING may be used for up to 21 days when stored at USP controlled room temperature, 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F).

Source: Barium Sulfate (Varibar Pudding) — US FDA prescribing information, 2026-05-15, DailyMed. Summarised and shortened; the full label governs. Iranian registration, indications and labelling may differ.