Does Gastrografin As Oral Contrast Agent In CT Scan Cause Diarrhea?

Posted on Fri, 20 Jun 2014

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Fri, 20 Jun 2014 Answered on

Fri, 11 Jul 2014 Last reviewed on

Question : I am having a ct scan in a few weeks with both oral and iv contrast. I have had scans with the barium before and had severe diarrhea withing hours. This time I am going to try the alternative, gastrografin ? Will this also cause diarrhea? I have to remain at the hospital for a few hours for hydration after the scan and don't want to worry about problems.

Answered by Dr. Indu Kumar (3 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Diarrhea is less with gastrografin.

Detailed Answer:
Hello XXXX
Thanks for writing to HCM

Yes,barium as oral contrast agent can cause diarrhea in some patients.It may even cause severe diarrhea.

You are rightly advised for alternative oral contrast gastrografin.Gastrografin can also cause diarrhea but incidences of diarrhea are less as compared to barium.

You don't worry at all.Even if diarrhea occurs,it will limit after clearance of contrast agent from the intestine.
It is good that you are hydrated prophylactically.

You should be keep calm and go for investigations.You will be alright.

Wish you all the best.
Hope I have answered your question.
Further queries are most welcome.

Take Care
Dr.Indu XXXXXXX

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar