Varibar Side Effects

Generic name: barium sulfate

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Feb 20, 2024.

Note: This document provides detailed information about Varibar Side Effects associated with barium sulfate. Some dosage forms listed on this page may not apply specifically to the brand name Varibar.

Applies to barium sulfate: oral cream, oral paste, oral powder for suspension, oral suspension, oral tablet.

Common side effects of Varibar

Some side effects of barium sulfate may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.

Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

More common side effects

• constipation or diarrhea
• cramping

Serious side effects of Varibar

Along with its needed effects, barium sulfate (the active ingredient contained in Varibar) may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor or nurse immediately if any of the following side effects occur while taking barium sulfate:

Rare side effects

• bloating
• constipation (severe, continuing)
• cramping (severe)
• nausea or vomiting
• stomach pain
• tightness in the chest
• trouble breathing

Incidence not known

• anxiety
• blood in the urine or stools
• blurred vision
• bruising
• chest pain
• confusion
• cough
• coughing or vomiting blood
• dizziness, faintness, or lightheadedness when getting up suddenly from a lying or sitting position
• fainting
• fast or slow heartbeat
• hives or welts, itching, or skin rash
• noisy breathing
• persistent bleeding or oozing from puncture sites, mouth, or nose
• redness of the skin
• sweating
• unusual tiredness or weakness

For healthcare professionals

Applies to barium sulfate: compounding powder, oral capsule, oral cream, oral paste, oral powder for reconstitution, oral suspension, oral tablet, oral and rectal powder for reconstitution, oral and rectal suspension, rectal powder for reconstitution, rectal suspension.

General adverse events

General side effects including severe reactions (approximately 1 in 1,000,000) and fatalities (approximately 1 in 10,000,000) have been reported.^[Ref]

Other

Other side effects caused by procedural complications have been rare. Procedural complications have included aspiration pneumonitis, barium impaction, granuloma formation, intravasation, embolization and peritonitis following intestinal perforation, vasovagal and syncopal episodes, and fatalities.^[Ref]

Cardiovascular

Cardiovascular side effects including EKG changes have been reported following or during barium enema procedures.^[Ref]

It is of the utmost importance to be completely prepared to treat any EKG changes.^[Ref]

Gastrointestinal

Gastrointestinal side effects including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramping accompanying the use of barium sulfate (the active ingredient contained in Varibar) formulations have been infrequent and usually mild.^[Ref]

Further information

Varibar side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Some side effects may not be reported. You may report them to the FDA.

Medical Disclaimer