Last updated: February 20, 2026
Liquid E-Z-PAQUE is a radiopaque contrast agent used primarily in diagnostic imaging procedures such as fluoroscopy and X-ray examinations of the gastrointestinal tract. Its formulation typically contains barium sulfate suspended in a liquid medium.
Major Suppliers and Manufacturers
| Company |
Location |
Product Details |
Market Presence |
Regulatory Approvals |
| Guerbet |
France |
E-Z-PAQUE Liquid, Barium Sulfate Suspension |
Global |
CE Mark, FDA approval |
| Bracco Diagnostics |
Italy |
Barium-based contrast agents (including E-Z-PAQUE) |
North America, Europe |
FDA approval, EMA registration |
| Guerbet |
France |
E-Z-PAQUE Liquid, Barium Sulfate Suspension |
Global |
CE Mark, FDA approval |
| Teleflex Medical (formerly Cook) |
USA |
Barium sulfate suspensions, including liquid formulations |
North America |
FDA approval |
| E-Z-PAQUE (generic/international distributors) |
International |
Barium sulfate suspensions from licensed suppliers |
Various markets |
Regulatory approvals based on country |
Key Points About Suppliers
- Guerbet is the primary manufacturer of E-Z-PAQUE Liquid in Europe and globally, holding both CE Mark and FDA approval.
- Bracco Diagnostics distributes E-Z-PAQUE in North America under licensing agreements or direct manufacturing.
- Teleflex Medical supplies barium sulfate suspensions through various distribution channels, some of which may include E-Z-PAQUE equivalents.
- Distributors in emerging markets often source from licensed manufacturers, but due diligence regarding regulatory approval and quality standards is essential.
Regulatory Landscape
- FDA Approval is required in the U.S. for sale of liquid barium sulfate suspensions used in diagnostic imaging.
- European CE Mark certifies compliance with medical device safety standards.
- ISO Certification is common among major suppliers, ensuring quality systems alignment.
Market Dynamics
- Supply Chain Concentration: Guerbet holds a dominant position for E-Z-PAQUE, with limited competition from other branded liquid barium sulfate products.
- Generic and Import Markets: International suppliers and regional distributors often offer imported or locally produced equivalents that may vary in quality or regulatory status.
- Regulatory Challenges: Variations in approval requirements influence availability, especially in markets with less stringent medical device regulations.
Conclusion
The primary supplier for Liquid E-Z-PAQUE is Guerbet, with regional distributors and generic alternatives serving global markets. Verifying regulatory compliance and product origin is critical when sourcing from distributors or generic suppliers.
Key Takeaways
- Guerbet is the exclusive producer of liquid E-Z-PAQUE on a global scale.
- Market access depends on securing products with proper regulatory approval, such as FDA or CE Mark.
- Several regional suppliers and distributors offer alternative barium sulfate suspensions, but quality and regulatory status vary.
- Due diligence is necessary when evaluating suppliers for compliance, especially in non-regulated markets.
- Supply chain dependencies on Guerbet influence pricing and availability in global markets.
FAQs
1. Is E-Z-PAQUE available from generic manufacturers?
Yes, some licensed generic suppliers provide barium sulfate suspensions similar to E-Z-PAQUE, but regulatory approval and product quality should be verified.
2. What are the main regulatory requirements for importing E-Z-PAQUE?
Regulatory requirements include FDA approval for the U.S., CE Mark for Europe, and country-specific approvals for other regions.
3. Can I purchase E-Z-PAQUE directly from Guerbet?
Typically, sales are through authorized distributors or institutional contracts. Direct procurement depends on regional distribution agreements.
4. Are there significant regional differences in suppliers?
Yes, North America primarily relies on distributors like Bracco and Teleflex, while Europe and Asia have local licensing arrangements with Guerbet or regional suppliers.
5. How can I verify a supplier’s regulatory compliance?
Request documentation such as CE certificates, FDA approvals, or local regulatory registrations. Confirm that the product has appropriate quality certifications (ISO).
References
- Guerbet. (2022). E-Z-PAQUE: Clinical Data and Regulatory Approvals. Retrieved from https://www.guerbet.com
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2022). Medical Devices: Barium Sulfate Suspensions. Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov
- European Medicines Agency. (2022). Diagnostic Imaging Agents. Retrieved from https://www.ema.europa.eu
