When given orally, gastrografin may taste bitter. The oral contrast is swallowed and travels into the stomach and then into gastrointestinal tract. It is important to eliminate as much food as possible from the stomach and intestines in order to help the sensitivity of the CT exam using oral contrast. Food and food remains can mimic disease when the oral contrast is present. The preparation time varies depending on the actual exam as well as the imaging center's requirements.
Patient preparation varies from center to center, depending on a number of issues.
Some types of oral CT contrast are taken at home well before the CT examination. In general, barium and gastrografin contrast are safe and pass through the gastrointestinal tract in the same fashion as food or drink. Minor side effects, such as constipation, may occur. Certain medical conditions such as a perforated ulcer may indicate the use of gastrografin instead or barium. The referring physicians and or radiologist will decide which type of contrast material is most appropriate based on a patient's specific condition.