Diagnostic

DIAGNOSTIC            

Diagnostic medications help a type of test used to help determine a disease or medical condition. Our specialty pharmacy dispenses barium for use in diagnostic procedures.

Types

• A barium swallow, or upper GI series, is an x-ray test used to examine the upper digestive tract (the esophagus, stomach, and small intestine). Because these organs are normally not visible on x-rays, you need to swallow barium, a liquid that does show up on x-rays. The barium temporarily coats the lining of the esophagus, stomach, and intestine, making the outline of these organs visible on the x-ray pictures. This test is useful for diagnosing cancers, ulcers, problems that cause narrowing of the esophagus, some causes of inflammation in the intestine, and some swallowing problems.

• A barium enema is an x-ray test used to examine the lower digestive tract (the colon and rectum). Because the colon and rectum are normally not visible on x-rays, you need to temporarily coat their inner surfaces with barium, a liquid that does show up on x-rays. This makes the outline of these organs visible on the x-ray pictures. This test is useful for diagnosing cancers and diverticuli (small pouches that may form in the intestinal wall).

PROCEDURE

In many barium tests, you may be given an injection to relax your muscles. This may be given directly into a vein (IV) or into your muscles (IM). This will help with the cramping feeling and provide better test results.

You will likely be asked to stand or lie in a number of different positions while x-rays are taken by the radiographer. The x-ray machine is linked to a television monitor and photographs or video footage can be taken if necessary. Generally, the procedure takes around 20 minutes. You may need to have follow-up x-rays.

MEDICATIONS DISPENSED THROUGH FOSRX/FAST:

• BARIUM

DRUG INFORMATION

Drug information for this condition is made available by Factor One Source Pharmacy upon request by emailing contact@fosrxfast.com directly, or by submitting an inquiry through our Contact Page.