Last updated: August 5, 2025
Introduction
LIQUID E-Z-PAQUE is a radiopaque contrast medium primarily used in diagnostic imaging procedures such as gastrointestinal (GI) studies and intravenous pyelography. It contains barium sulfate, a highly effective and widely accepted agent that enhances visualization of the GI tract during imaging modalities like X-ray and fluoroscopy. Its utility hinges on consistent quality, availability, and regulatory approvals, necessitating reliable suppliers across the pharmaceutical and diagnostic supply chains.
This article delineates the leading suppliers of LIQUID E-Z-PAQUE, explores market dynamics, and offers strategic insights for healthcare providers, pharmacies, and medical facilities. As a specialized contrast agent, the procurement landscape is characterized by a limited number of prominent manufacturers and distributors aligned with stringent regulatory frameworks.
Overview of LIQUID E-Z-PAQUE
Developed by E-Z-EM Inc., LIQUID E-Z-PAQUE is designed for oral administration of radiopaque contrast during GI imaging procedures. Its formulation ensures high-quality imaging, ease of administration, and patient safety. Regulatory agencies including the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and European Medicines Agency (EMA) regulate its distribution, emphasizing the importance of sourcing from compliant suppliers.
Given its specialized nature, LIQUID E-Z-PAQUE's supply chain is concentrated among a select group of manufacturers, with distribution through regional and global medical suppliers.
Leading Suppliers of LIQUID E-Z-PAQUE
1. E-Z-EM Inc.
As the original manufacturer, E-Z-EM Inc. holds the patent and manufacturing rights for LIQUID E-Z-PAQUE. Based in the United States, E-Z-EM has established a dominant position in the market, leveraging extensive regulatory approval and a global distribution network.
Key Highlights:
- Manufacturing Location: United States, with global production facilities.
- Distribution Channels: Direct sales to hospital systems, diagnostic labs, and pharmacy networks.
- Regulatory Approvals: Approved by FDA and CE marking in Europe.
- Supply security: Ensures product availability through its global supply chain.
2. Guerbet Group
Guerbet, a French healthcare company specializing in contrast agents, pharmaceuticals, and medical imaging solutions, is an emerging supplier or regional distributor of similar barium sulfate-based contrast media, including LIQUID E-Z-PAQUE in certain markets.
Key Highlights:
- Product Portfolio: Known for medications like Ultravist (iodinated contrast) and related barium sulfate products.
- Market Reach: Europe, North America, Asia-Pacific.
- Regulatory status: European CE marking, FDA approvals where applicable.
While Guerbet may not produce LIQUID E-Z-PAQUE under that exact brand name, it supplies comparable products, making it a potential alternative or secondary source for regional distributors.
3. Cardinal Health and McKesson Corporation
Major pharmaceutical distributors such as Cardinal Health and McKesson serve as intermediaries, sourcing LIQUID E-Z-PAQUE directly from E-Z-EM Inc. for widespread distribution across hospitals and clinics in North America.
Key Highlights:
- Distribution channels: Broad network covering hospitals, outpatient clinics, and imaging centers.
- Advantages: Rapid delivery, inventory management, and extensive regional coverage.
- Regulatory compliance: Ensure sourcing from authorized suppliers authorized by E-Z-EM.
4. Local and Regional Distributors
In emerging markets and specific countries, authorized regional distributors or authorized importers facilitate access to LIQUID E-Z-PAQUE, complying with country-specific regulatory requirements.
Examples include:
- In India, distributors like S.S. Scientific & Surgical Company.
- In Southeast Asia, regional healthcare suppliers authorized by E-Z-EM.
Note: Procurement from these sources requires verification of regulatory compliance, proper licensing, and product authenticity.
Market Dynamics and Considerations
The supply of LIQUID E-Z-PAQUE remains relatively concentrated due to the specialized nature of contrast media manufacturing, stringent regulatory pathways, and patent protections. Manufacturing frequent shortages tend to be linked to production issues, regulatory delays, or geopolitical disruptions.
Healthcare providers should prioritize sourcing from established, accredited suppliers to mitigate risks of counterfeit products or compromised quality. Efforts to diversify supply lines are advisable, especially amid global supply chain uncertainties.
Regulatory and Procurement Strategies
- Verification of compliance: Ensure suppliers possess necessary regulatory approvals (FDA, CE, local agency permissions).
- Supplier accreditation: Choose distributors with good standing and supply chain transparency.
- Inventory management: Maintain buffer stock to prevent disruptions during procurement delays.
- International supply considerations: Be aware of import regulations and tariffs that may impact availability and cost.
Future Trends
The market may witness diversification through the development of alternative contrast agents, including non-barium-based formulations or advanced imaging agents. However, LIQUID E-Z-PAQUE remains the gold standard for specific GI imaging applications, sustaining demand and supplier investments.
Potential disruptions include regulatory shifts, patent expirations, or emerging biosafety standards that could alter manufacturing and supply dynamics.
Key Takeaways
- E-Z-EM Inc. remains the primary manufacturer and supplier of LIQUID E-Z-PAQUE, with global distribution channels.
- Major pharmaceutical distributors such as Cardinal Health and McKesson facilitate its availability across healthcare systems.
- Regional distributors serve emerging markets, emphasizing the importance of regulatory compliance.
- Suppliers should be verified for regulatory approvals, quality standards, and supply stability.
- Diversification of sourcing and proactive inventory management are essential strategies against supply chain disruptions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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Is LIQUID E-Z-PAQUE available globally?
Yes. While primarily produced by E-Z-EM Inc., the product is available worldwide through regional distributors and healthcare supply chains, subject to local regulatory approvals.
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Can LIQUID E-Z-PAQUE be substituted with alternative contrast agents?
While alternatives exist, LIQUID E-Z-PAQUE’s specific formulation makes substitution challenging, particularly for procedures requiring high radiopacity. Clinical consultation is necessary for any substitution.
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What should healthcare providers consider when sourcing LIQUID E-Z-PAQUE?
Providers must verify supplier regulatory approvals, product authenticity, and supply chain reliability to ensure patient safety and regulatory compliance.
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Are there shortages of LIQUID E-Z-PAQUE?
Shortages can occur due to manufacturing issues or supply chain disruptions. Maintaining buffer stock and establishing relationships with multiple suppliers mitigates risk.
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Are there any upcoming regulatory changes affecting LIQUID E-Z-PAQUE?
Regulations evolve periodically; staying informed via agencies like FDA and EMA ensures compliance. Any changes may impact manufacturing, approval, or distribution protocols.
References
[1] E-Z-EM Inc. Product Information. Accessed via official website.
[2] FDA Regulatory Database. List of approved contrast agents.
[3] European Medicines Agency (EMA). Cardiac and contrast media approvals.
[4] Market Reports. Global contrast media market analysis, 2022.
[5] Industry Expert Publications. Supply chain and distribution insights, 2023.
Note: The above references are indicative; relevant and updated sources should be verified for current procurement decisions.
