GNH USA

Europe — EMA

Microtrast

GNH USA supplies Microtrast (Barium sulfate), a contrast agent for gastrointestinal imaging such as barium swallow and enema. Request a quote for supply.

Barium Sulfate

Request sourcing

1
Pack/s

What is Barium Sulfate?

Barium sulfate, the active ingredient in Microtrast, is a contrast agent presented as an oral suspension for gastrointestinal imaging use. It provides radiopaque contrast that enhances X‑ray and CT visualization of the GI tract during procedures such as barium swallow and barium enema.

GNH USA supplies Microtrast as a licensed, GDP‑compliant international pharmaceutical supplier serving hospitals, pharmacies and clinics worldwide, ensuring quality and regulatory compliance across markets. The product meets European Union pharmacopeial standards and is manufactured under GMP conditions.

What is Barium Sulfate used for?

Microtrast, a barium sulfate oral contrast agent, is used for radiographic evaluation of the gastrointestinal tract. - Barium swallow: Improves visualization of the esophagus and upper GI tract during fluoroscopic examination. - Barium enema: Enhances contrast of the colon and rectum for diagnostic imaging of lower GI disorders. - CT enterography: Provides radiopaque contrast for computed tomography assessment of small bowel pathology.

What are the side effects of Barium Sulfate?

Oral barium sulfate may cause gastrointestinal and systemic reactions, most of which are mild and transient.

Common Side Effects: - Nausea: mild discomfort after ingestion. - Abdominal cramping: transient pain during bowel distension. - Constipation: temporary difficulty passing stool. - Metallic taste: brief aftertaste in the mouth.

Serious or Rare Side Effects: - Barium impaction: obstruction of the bowel requiring medical attention. - Aspiration pneumonia: inhalation of barium into the lungs. - Allergic reaction: rash, itching, or swelling.

What precautions apply to Barium Sulfate?

Before administering Microtrast, clinicians should consider several safety measures. - Patient assessment: verify no known hypersensitivity to barium sulfate. - Gastrointestinal obstruction: avoid use in patients with suspected or confirmed bowel obstruction. - Recent surgery: postpone administration if recent GI surgery may increase perforation risk. - Pregnancy: use only if clearly needed, as safety data are limited. - Contrast preparation: ensure proper mixing of suspension before administration. - Store at ambient temperature: keep below 25°C, retain original packaging, protect from moisture.

What does Barium Sulfate interact with?

Barium sulfate can interact with certain oral agents, affecting image quality or patient safety.

Major Interactions (Avoid): - Antacids containing aluminum or magnesium: may reduce barium suspension homogeneity. - Iron supplements: can cause precipitation and reduce image quality. - Calcium‑containing laxatives: may interfere with barium coating.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely): - Proton pump inhibitors: may alter gastric pH affecting barium distribution. - Diuretics: increased fluid loss may affect patient tolerance. - Antiemetics: may mask nausea symptoms.

Frequently asked questions

What is Microtrast used for?+
Microtrast is an oral barium sulfate suspension used as a radiopaque contrast medium to enhance X‑ray and CT images of the gastrointestinal tract. It is employed in procedures such as barium swallow, barium enema, and CT enterography to improve visualization of the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, colon, and rectum.
How does barium sulfate work?+
Barium sulfate contains dense, insoluble barium particles that do not absorb into the body. When ingested, the particles line the lumen of the GI tract and strongly attenuate X‑ray photons because of barium’s high atomic number. This creates a bright, radiopaque outline on imaging studies, allowing clinicians to see structural details and abnormalities.
What is the usual dose of Microtrast?+
The dose of Microtrast is determined by the prescribing physician based on the specific imaging procedure, patient age, weight, and clinical indication. Typical regimens involve a measured volume of the suspension taken under supervision, but exact quantities must be individualized and documented by the healthcare provider.
Is Microtrast safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?+
Safety data for barium sulfate in pregnancy and lactation are limited, and the product is classified as having an unknown pregnancy category. It should only be used when clearly necessary and after a risk‑benefit assessment by the treating physician. Breastfeeding mothers should consult their clinician before use.
How do I order Microtrast from GNH USA?+
To order Microtrast, visit the product page on gnh-usa.com, submit an enquiry with the required quantity, and provide your institutional or trade credentials. GNH USA supplies hospitals, pharmacies, and procurement teams worldwide, then confirms pricing, availability, shipping details, and any necessary import documentation.
How does Microtrast compare with other contrast agents?+
Microtrast (barium sulfate) is a non‑ionic, insoluble oral contrast that provides superior radiopacity for GI tract imaging compared with water‑based iodinated agents, which are often used intravenously. Barium offers longer gastric residence and clearer mucosal coating, but it cannot be used when a perforation is suspected, whereas iodinated agents can be administered intravenously for vascular imaging.
What are the storage and handling requirements for Microtrast?+
Microtrast should be stored at ambient temperature, preferably below 25 °C. Keep the product in its original container, protect it from moisture and direct sunlight, and ensure the suspension is well mixed before each use. Do not freeze the suspension, as this may affect particle distribution.
How is Microtrast administered?+
Microtrast is administered orally as a suspension. The patient drinks a measured volume of the prepared suspension under the supervision of a radiology technician or physician, typically after fasting. The amount ingested depends on the imaging protocol, and the patient may be asked to remain upright to facilitate even distribution throughout the GI tract.
What are the most serious risks associated with Microtrast?+
The most serious risks include barium impaction, which can cause bowel obstruction and may require medical intervention; aspiration of barium into the lungs leading to pneumonia; and worsening of an existing gastrointestinal perforation. Prompt recognition of these events and appropriate medical management are essential.
Who should not use Microtrast?+
Microtrast should be avoided in patients with known hypersensitivity to barium sulfate, suspected or confirmed bowel obstruction, recent gastrointestinal perforation or surgery, and in individuals for whom aspiration risk is high. Clinicians should also exercise caution in pregnant or lactating patients when alternative imaging options are available.
Information provided on this page is for educational use by procurement and clinical professionals. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider for medical advice and prescribing decisions. GNH USA supplies this product subject to applicable regulatory and licensing requirements.

Product details

Drug
Barium Sulfate
Route
Oral Use
Manufacturer
Guerbet
Origin
EU

Related products