Medical Editor: John P. Cunha, DO, FACOEP
Readi-Cat 2 (barium sulfate suspension) is a positive contrast agent for radiographic studies indicated for use in Computed Tomography to opacify the GI tract. Common side effects of Readi-Cat 2 include:
- nausea,
- vomiting,
- diarrhea, and
- abdominal cramping.
Less common side effects of Readi-Cat 2 include:
- a mild allergic reaction (itching, skin redness, or hives),
- weakness,
- pale skin,
- ringing in the ears,
- sweating, and
- slow heart rate.
The dose of the Readi-Cat 2 suspension to be administered depends on the degree and extent of contrast required in the area(s) under examination and on the equipment and technique employed. Readi-Cat 2 may interact with other drugs. Tell your doctor all medications and supplements you use. Readi-Cat 2 is not recommended for use during pregnancy; radiation may harm a fetus. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Our Readi-Cat 2 (barium sulfate suspension) Side Effects Drug Center provides a comprehensive view of available drug information on the potential side effects when taking this medication.This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

SLIDESHOW
Health Screening Tests Every Woman Needs See SlideshowSIDE EFFECTS
The following adverse reactions have been identified from spontaneous reporting or clinical studies of barium sulfate administered orally. Because the reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or to establish a causal relationship to drug exposure:
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal cramping
- Serious adverse reactions and fatalities include aspiration pneumonitis, barium sulfate impaction, intestinal perforation with consequent peritonitis and granuloma formation, vasovagal and syncopal episodes
Read the entire FDA prescribing information for Readi-cat 2 (Barium Sulfate Suspension )