Barium API Manufacturers & Suppliers
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Barium | CAS No: 7440-39-3 | GMP-certified suppliers
A medication that enhances imaging contrast for diagnostic evaluation of abdominal diseases, primarily used to improve visualization of the gastrointestinal tract in radiographic procedures.
Therapeutic categories
Product Snapshot
- Barium is supplied as an inorganic compound primarily used in contrast media formulations for diagnostic imaging purposes
- Its main application is in radiographic procedures to enhance visualization of the gastrointestinal tract
- Barium products are currently classified as investigational and do not have FDA or EMA approval for therapeutic use
Clinical Overview
Chemically, barium belongs to the class of homogeneous alkaline earth metals, characterized by the presence of only metal atoms with barium being the heaviest in this category. As an element, it exhibits properties consistent with other bivalent alkaline earth metals.
Pharmacodynamic and mechanism of action data are not specified for barium as an active pharmaceutical ingredient, given its role is mainly physical rather than biochemical. It functions by virtue of its radiopaque properties, which enable enhanced contrast on imaging modalities and thereby assist in the visualization of abdominal structures.
Absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion (ADME) parameters for barium as used diagnostically are limited. Typically, barium sulfate formulations used in diagnostic imaging are poorly absorbed systemically, minimizing systemic exposure and toxicity risks. However, barium metal or soluble barium salts are known to be toxic if absorbed, necessitating careful formulation to avoid systemic bioavailability.
Safety considerations include the potential toxicity of soluble barium compounds, which may cause adverse effects if absorbed. Therefore, diagnostic barium preparations are formulated to be insoluble (such as barium sulfate) to limit systemic absorption. The use of barium requires adherence to established safety protocols to prevent exposure to soluble barium compounds.
Currently, barium in pharmaceutical or diagnostic contexts is classified as investigational and is not associated with marketed brands for systemic pharmaceutical use. For API sourcing, high purity and stringent quality controls are essential to avoid contamination with toxic barium salts or heavy metal impurities. Compliance with pharmacopeial standards and regulatory guidelines ensures suitability for diagnostic applications.
Identification & chemistry
| Generic name | Barium |
|---|---|
| Molecule type | Small molecule |
| CAS | 7440-39-3 |
| UNII | 24GP945V5T |
| DrugBank ID | DB12481 |
Formulation & handling
- Barium is a small inorganic molecule typically unsuitable for oral formulations due to potential toxicity, requiring careful route of administration assessment.
- Its low logP value indicates limited lipophilicity, necessitating formulation strategies to enhance solubility if used in injectable forms.
- Handling requires caution due to its classification as an alkaline earth metal compound and investigational status, emphasizing safety and purity controls.
Regulatory status
Barium is a type of Alkalinizing agents
Alkalinizing agents, a pharmaceutical API category, refers to a group of substances used to increase the pH (alkalinity) of a solution or body fluid. These agents play a crucial role in various medical applications, such as the treatment of acidosis, kidney disorders, and certain drug overdoses.
One commonly used alkalinizing agent is sodium bicarbonate, which is highly effective in raising the pH of blood and urine. It works by neutralizing excess acid and restoring the acid-base balance in the body. Sodium bicarbonate is often administered intravenously in emergency situations to rapidly correct severe acidosis.
Another alkalinizing agent, acetazolamide, is frequently employed in the treatment of glaucoma and certain types of epilepsy. By inhibiting carbonic anhydrase, acetazolamide reduces the production of bicarbonate ions, leading to a systemic decrease in pH. This mechanism is particularly useful in lowering the intraocular pressure associated with glaucoma.
Alkalinizing agents are also utilized in the management of certain drug toxicities. For instance, methotrexate, a chemotherapy medication, can cause severe toxicity if its elimination is hindered. Alkalinizing the urine with agents like sodium bicarbonate enhances methotrexate solubility, preventing the formation of toxic crystals in the kidneys.
In conclusion, alkalinizing agents are indispensable pharmaceutical APIs that help correct acid-base imbalances, treat specific medical conditions, and mitigate drug toxicities. Their diverse applications make them valuable tools in modern medicine.
