What Are The Side Effects Of Drinking A Barium Solution 2 Hours Before Having A CAT Scan?

Posted on Sun, 6 May 2018

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

Sun, 6 May 2018 Answered on

Fri, 13 Oct 2023 Last reviewed on

Question : I have stage 4 cancer. I have to drink a barium solution 2 hours before having cat scan. What are the Dr's looking for and what are the side effects? Thank you.

Answered by Dr. Dr. Esmeralda Sera (19 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Barium solution

Detailed Answer:
Hello and thank you for asking

First I’ll all I would like to know your diagnosis

Barium sulfate is a contrast agent. Barium sulfate works by coating the inside of your esophagus, stomach, or intestines which allows them to be seen more clearly on a CT scan

Common side effects may include:

mild stomach cramps;
nausea, vomiting;
loose stools or mild constipation.

Best regards

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj