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New packaging solution enhances sustainability, workflow efficiency, and patient throughput PRINCETON, N.J., Dec. 16, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Bracco Diagnostics Inc. (BDI), a U.S. subsidiary of Bracco Imaging S.p.A., one of the world's leading companies in the diagnostic imaging business, and a pioneer in healthcare innovation, proudly unveils its latest breakthrough in barium solutions: the "Mini" Packaging for VARIBAR® (barium sulfate) oral suspension. Designed to meet the diverse needs of healthcare providers, this packaging option offers smaller volumes of VARIBAR products, the gold standard in Modified Barium Swallow Studies (MBSS). Mini packaging will be available for VARIBAR® NECTAR (barium sulfate) oral suspension, VARIBAR® THIN HONEY (barium sulfate) oral suspension, VARIBAR® HONEY (barium sulfate) oral suspension, and VARIBAR® PUDDING (barium sulfate) oral paste. Time-tested, trusted, and FDA-approved, the legacy of standardized viscosities of the VARIBAR product line helps eliminate the unpredictability of varied barium preparations.1-4 The "Mini" Packaging is a significant milestone as it enhances procedural efficiency and patient care. "The VARIBAR line of products, with standardized viscosities, consistently addresses the most important needs in Modified Barium Swallow Studies," said Cosimo De Pinto, Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing at BDI. "Now, with this new additional packaging solution, VARIBAR products are available to clinicians in sustainable, smaller volume options." The key features of this innovative packaging include: Tailored Solutions: Healthcare providers can now access VARIBAR products in smaller quantities, optimizing resource utilization and reducing waste. Sustainability: BDI prioritizes using recyclable and biodegradable materials in manufacturing the "Mini" packaging, as it promotes a circular economy thereby reducing reliance on single-use plastics. Streamlined Workflow: The "Mini" Packaging facilitates smoother administration of VARIBAR contrast, enhancing workflow efficiency and patient throughput. "This new packaging minimizes product waste, thereby reducing the environmental footprint of healthcare procedures," said Amy King, Director of Sustainability at BDI. "Compact packaging optimizes storage space and transportation efficiency, further reducing consumption and emissions." By offering VARIBAR products in a more versatile and accessible format, BDI continues to invest in the future of abdominal radiology. The "Mini" Packaging for VARIBAR products is now available for order from all BDI wholesalers and distributors. For more information, please visit . Please see Important Safety Information below. VARIBAR® (barium sulfate) INDICATIONS VARIBAR® THIN HONEY (barium sulfate) oral suspension, VARIBAR® NECTAR (barium sulfate) oral suspension, and VARIBAR® THIN LIQUID (barium sulfate) oral suspension are radiographic contrast agents indicated for use in modified barium swallow examinations to evaluate the oral and pharyngeal function and morphology in adult and pediatric patients. VARIBAR® HONEY (barium sulfate) oral suspension and VARIBAR® PUDDING (barium sulfate) oral paste are radiographic contrast agents indicated for use in modified barium swallow examinations to evaluate the oral and pharyngeal function and morphology in adult and pediatric patients 6 months of age and older. IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION CONTRAINDICATIONS These products should not be used in patients with known or suspected perforation of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract; known obstruction of the GI tract; high risk of GI perforation such as those with a recent GI perforation, acute GI hemorrhage or ischemia, toxic megacolon, severe ileus, post GI surgery or biopsy, acute GI injury or burn, or recent radiotherapy to the pelvis; high risk of aspiration such as those with known or suspected tracheo-esophageal fistula or obtundation; known severe hypersensitivity to barium sulfate or any of the excipients of the product used. WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS Hypersensitivity Reactions Barium sulfate preparations contain a number of excipients, including natural and artificial flavors, and may induce serious hypersensitivity reactions. The manifestations include hypotension, bronchospasm and other respiratory impairments, and dermal reactions including rashes, urticaria, and itching. A history of bronchial asthma, atopy, food allergies, or a previous reaction to a contrast agent may increase the risk for hypersensitivity reactions. Emergency equipment and trained personnel should be immediately available for treatment of a hypersensitivity reaction. Intra-abdominal Barium Leakage The use of VARIBAR PRODUCTS is contraindicated in patients at high risk of perforation of the GI tract. Administration of VARIBAR PRODUCTS may result in leakage of barium from the GI tract in the presence of conditions such as carcinomas, GI fistula, inflammatory bowel disease, gastric or duodenal ulcer, appendicitis, or diverticulitis, and in patients with a severe stenosis at any level of the GI tract, especially if it is distal to the stomach. The barium leakage has been associated with peritonitis and granuloma formation. Delayed Gastrointestinal Transit and Obstruction Orally administered barium sulfate may accumulate proximal to a constricting lesion of the colon, causing obstruction or impaction with development of baroliths (inspissated barium associated with feces) and may lead to abdominal pain, appendicitis, bowel obstruction, or rarely perforation. Patients with the following conditions are at higher risk for developing obstruction or baroliths: severe stenosis at any level of the GI tract, impaired GI motility, electrolyte imbalance, dehydration, on a low residue diet, taking medications that delay GI motility, constipation, pediatric patients with cystic fibrosis or Hirschsprung disease, and the elderly. To reduce the risk of delayed GI transit and obstruction, patients should maintain adequate hydration after the barium sulfate procedure. When administering VARIBAR PUDDING, consider the administration of laxatives. Aspiration Pneumonitis The use of VARIBAR PRODUCTS is contraindicated in patients with trachea-esophageal fistula. Oral administration of barium is associated with aspiration pneumonitis, especially in patients with a history of food aspiration or with compromised swallowing mechanism. Vomiting following oral administration of barium sulfate may lead to aspiration pneumonitis. In patients at risk for aspiration, begin the procedure with a small ingested volume of VARIBAR PRODUCTS. Monitor the patient closely for aspiration, discontinue administration of VARIBAR PRODUCTS if aspiration is suspected, and monitor for development of aspiration pneumonitis. Systemic Embolization Barium sulfate products may occasionally intravasate into the venous drainage of the GI tract and enter the circulation as a "barium embolus" leading to potentially fatal complications which include systemic and pulmonary embolism, disseminated intravascular coagulation, septicemia and prolonged severe hypotension. Although this complication is exceedingly uncommon after oral administration of a barium sulfate suspension, monitor patients for potential intravasation when administering barium sulfate. ADVERSE REACTIONS The most common adverse reactions are 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. You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit or call 1-800-FDA-1088. Please click here for full Prescribing Information for VARIBAR® THIN LIQUID (barium sulfate) oral suspension. Please click here for full Prescribing Information for VARIBAR® THIN HONEY (barium sulfate) oral suspension. Please click here for full Prescribing Information for VARIBAR® NECTAR (barium sulfate) oral suspension. Please click here for full Prescribing Information for VARIBAR® HONEY (barium sulfate) oral suspension. Please click here for full Prescribing Information for VARIBAR® PUDDING (barium sulfate) oral paste. VARIBAR is manufactured by E-Z-EM Canada Inc., for E-Z-EM, Inc., a subsidiary of Bracco Diagnostics Inc., Princeton, NJ 08540. VARIBAR is a registered trademark of E-Z-EM, Inc. For additional information about Bracco's products, and for full prescribing information, please visit . About Bracco Imaging Bracco Imaging S.p.A. ("Bracco Imaging"), part of the Bracco Group, is an innovative world leader delivering end-to-end products and solutions through its comprehensive portfolio across diagnostic imaging modalities. Headquartered in Milan, Italy, Bracco Imaging's purpose is to improve people's lives by shaping the future of prevention and precision diagnostic imaging. The Bracco Imaging portfolio includes products and solutions for all key diagnostic imaging modalities: X-ray imaging, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), Contrast Enhanced Ultrasound (CEUS), and Nuclear Medicine through radioactive tracers and novel PET imaging agents. Bracco Imaging has 3,800 employees and operates in more than 100 markets globally. Bracco Imaging has a well-skilled and innovative Research and Development (R&D) organization with an efficient process-oriented approach and track record in the diagnostic imaging industry. Discover Bracco at Bracco Diagnostics Inc. Media Relations (USA) Kimberly Gerweck Senior Compliance & Communications Manager [email protected] D: +1 609-524-2777 ______________________________ Hazelwood RJ, Armeson KE, Hill EG, et al. Identification of swallowing tasks from a modified barium swallow study that optimize the detection of physiological impairment. J Speech Lang Hear Res. 2017 Jul;60(7):1855-1863. Hind J, Divyak E, Zielinski J, et al. Comparison of standardized bariums with varying rheological parameters on swallowing kinematics in males. J Rehabil Res Dev. 2012;49(9):1399-1404. doi: 10.1682/jrrd.2011.09.0180. Robbins J, Nicosia M, Hind JA, et al. Defining physical properties of fluids for dysphagia evaluation and treatment. Perspectives on Swallowing and Swallowing Disorders (dysphagia). 2002 Jun;11(2):16-19. Martin-Harris, B., Humphries, K., Garand, K.L. The Modified Barium Swallow Impairment Profile (MBSImP™©) – Innovation, Dissemination and Implementation. Perspectives of the ASHA Special Interest Groups. 2017 Dec;2(4):129-138. SOURCE Bracco Group WANT YOUR COMPANY'S NEWS FEATURED ON PRNEWSWIRE.COM? 440k+ Newsrooms & Influencers 9k+ Digital Media Outlets 270k+ Journalists Opted In GET STARTED

The significant investment increases the production of CEUS microbubbles The imaging platform for ultrasound, the fruit of Bracco's research, assists doctors all over the world with more accurate diagnostic data, improving patients' quality of life and facilitating personalized treatment plans PLAN-LES-OUATES, Switzerland, Nov. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Over 80 million euros have been invested to build Hexagon, a new manufacturing facility located next to the historical 1997 plant which will, when fully operational, triple the production and distribution of one of the leading products from Bracco's research. The new multi-functional building will supply the world with the innovative contrast agent for ultrasound based on microbubbles, which allows real-time diagnosis and offers greater versatility as well as sustainability. It is the latest milestone in the Bracco Group's long-standing story of success. Founded in Milan in 1927, today the company operates in 100 countries while maintaining its strong Italian roots, and counts 1.8 billion euros in turnover and over 3,800 employees. Continue Reading Fulvio Renoldi Bracco (Vice Chairman and CEO of Bracco Imaging) & Diana Bracco (President and CEO of Bracco Group) The ties with Switzerland go back a long way: first the Research Center, nearly 40 years ago, followed by the Plan-les-Ouates manufacturing site. "It all began with collaboration between our research department and the Swiss Battelle Institute, which allowed us to explore cutting-edge modalities in diagnostic imaging," recalls Diana Bracco, President and CEO of the Group. "As a result of this new major investment, we will be in a position to satisfy the high global demand for our products. For us, as a family company, it is both an achievement and a great source of pride to be able to compete on a global scale in such a technologically advanced sector. We have invested on average 12.5 million francs per year over the last decade in R&D at the Geneva Research Center," concluded Diana Bracco, "employing more than 45 scientists and researchers. Furthermore, it is precisely the proximity of the research and development department to production which is an essential factor in the success of Bracco Suisse." Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasound is a high-sensitivity, non-invasive diagnostic imaging modality free of radiation, capable of enhancing the visibility, and therefore the evaluation, of heart cavities, blood vessels and tissue vascularity. Microbubbles also have enormous potential in the field of precision medicine because they can serve as vectors of pharmaceuticals, activating the temporary opening of the vascular tissue barrier thereby optimizing the therapeutic effect, making it as targeted and effective as possible. "Bracco has always been at the forefront of scientific progress because innovation is in our DNA," stated Fulvio Renoldi Bracco, Vice Chairman and CEO of Bracco Imaging. "With this ambitious project, which enables us to triple and expand our production lines, Bracco aims to become the global leader in the CEUS sector. We see the potential of this modality as a complement to X-ray, magnetic resonance and PET/SPECT to help health systems deliver more efficient care to their patients. Our microbubble platform is a more convenient, cutting-edge medical technology that adds value to diagnostic imaging. We will continue to invest in this area in the near future, as it has already delivered excellent results internationally." Inauguration day for the new plant - a 4-story building characterized by contemporary design and constructed according to the most rigorous sustainability standards - began with a symbolic ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by, along with Diana Bracco and Fulvio Renoldi Bracco, Anne Lévy, Director of the FOPH – Federal Office of Public Health, Xavier Magnin, Mayor of Plan-les-Ouates, Monika Schmutz Kirgöz, Ambassador of Switzerland to Italy, Gian Lorenzo Cornado, Ambassador of Italy to Switzerland, Alexandre Epalle, Director General of Economic Development, Research, and Innovation for the Canton of Geneva and Simona Loizzo, member of the Italian Parliament. In their speeches, the ambassadors from the two countries highlighted the friendly relations between Italy and Switzerland, the value of the investment in the Canton of Geneva, and Bracco's role in one of the most advanced sectors of the Life Sciences and of prevention. In the afternoon, the scientific symposium "Bubble Power – Imaging & Beyond" was held at the Spark Auditorium to celebrate the event. Moderated by Fabio Tedoldi, Head of Global Research & Development at Bracco Imaging, the convention featured introductory remarks by Cristina Messa, Full Professor of Diagnostic Imaging and Radiotherapy at the University of Milano-Bicocca and former Italian Minister of University and Research, and speeches by Alberto Spinazzi, Senior Vice President, Chief Medical and Regulatory Officer, Thierry Bettinger, Geneva Research Center Director, and Vincent Letondal, Site Manager-Operations Director, Bracco Suisse SA, as well as numerous valuable contributions from international scientists, managers and specialists. Bracco is an international Group active in over 100 countries worldwide in the healthcare sector and a leader in diagnostic imaging. It has over 3,800 employees and annual total consolidated revenues of around 1,8 billion euros, 88% of which from international sales. In the Research and Development area, the company invests approximately 10% of reference turnover in the imaging diagnostics and medical devices sectors and has a portfolio comprising over 2,600 patents. Photo: Logo: SOURCE Gruppo Bracco WANT YOUR COMPANY'S NEWS FEATURED ON PRNEWSWIRE.COM? 440k+ Newsrooms & Influencers 9k+ Digital Media Outlets 270k+ Journalists Opted In GET STARTED

MONROE TOWNSHIP, N.J., & OXFORD, England--( BUSINESS WIRE )--Blue Earth Diagnostics, a Bracco company and recognized leader in the development and commercialization of innovative PET radiopharmaceuticals, welcomes changes announced by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) for the Hospital Outpatient Prospective Payment System (OPPS) Rule on November 1, 2024. The rule, which goes into effect January 1, 2025, is designed to improve payments for diagnostic radiopharmaceuticals for U.S. Medicare patients, and has the potential to increase sustained access to innovative radiopharmaceuticals. “ We are very pleased that CMS has updated this rule, which will increase patient access to advanced diagnostic imaging products to inform patient management and treatment,” said Marco Campione, Chief Executive Officer of Blue Earth Diagnostics. “ This action will foster additional innovation and sustainability in nuclear medicine and molecular imaging, aligning with our company commitment to deliver leading-edge radiopharmaceutical solutions for improved patient care.” “ Since its inception, Blue Earth Diagnostics has championed the need for reimbursement reform around CMS payment methodology for diagnostic radiopharmaceuticals. This rule corrects a significant reimbursement gap that previously hampered the adoption of innovative radiopharmaceutical products, and patient access,” said Terri Wilson, President, Blue Earth Diagnostics. “ It supports Blue Earth Diagnostics’ entire portfolio of diagnostic imaging agents. POSLUMA ® (flotufolastat F 18) maintains its current Pass-Through payment status until September 30, 2026. Axumin ® (fluciclovine F 18), which previously lost Pass-Through status in January 2020, will regain separate payment under this new rule. Although the updated payment methodology provides for separate payment for diagnostic radiopharmaceuticals, payment will differ for Pass-Through and non-Pass-Through diagnostic radiopharmaceuticals. Our field reimbursement team continues to work with hospitals to ensure they understand the new rule and its implications.” Indication and Important Safety Information About Axumin INDICATION Axumin ® (fluciclovine F 18) injection is indicated for positron emission tomography (PET) imaging in men with suspected prostate cancer recurrence based on elevated blood prostate specific antigen (PSA) levels following prior treatment. IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION Image interpretation errors can occur with Axumin PET imaging. A negative image does not rule out recurrent prostate cancer and a positive image does not confirm its presence. The performance of Axumin seems to be affected by PSA levels. Axumin uptake may occur with other cancers and benign prostatic hypertrophy in primary prostate cancer. Clinical correlation, which may include histopathological evaluation, is recommended. Hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylaxis, may occur in patients who receive Axumin. Emergency resuscitation equipment and personnel should be immediately available. Axumin use contributes to a patient’s overall long-term cumulative radiation exposure, which is associated with an increased risk of cancer. Safe handling practices should be used to minimize radiation exposure to the patient and health care providers. Adverse reactions were reported in ≤ 1% of subjects during clinical studies with Axumin. The most common adverse reactions were injection site pain, injection site erythema and dysgeusia. To report suspected adverse reactions to Axumin, call 1-855-AXUMIN1 (1-855-298-6461) or contact FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch . Full Axumin prescribing information is available at https://www.axumin.com/prescribing-information.pdf . Indication and Important Safety Information About POSLUMA INDICATION POSLUMA ® (flotufolastat F 18) injection is indicated for positron emission tomography (PET) of prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) positive lesions in men with prostate cancer with suspected metastasis who are candidates for initial definitive therapy with suspected recurrence based on elevated serum prostate-specific antigen (PSA) level IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION Image interpretation errors can occur with POSLUMA PET. A negative image does not rule out the presence of prostate cancer and a positive image does not confirm the presence of prostate cancer. The performance of POSLUMA for imaging metastatic pelvic lymph nodes in patients prior to initial definitive therapy seems to be affected by serum PSA levels and risk grouping. The performance of POSLUMA for imaging patients with biochemical evidence of recurrence of prostate cancer seems to be affected by serum PSA levels. Flotufolastat F 18 uptake is not specific for prostate cancer and may occur in other types of cancer, in non-malignant processes, and in normal tissues. Clinical correlation, which may include histopathological evaluation, is recommended. Risk of Image Misinterpretation in Patients with Suspected Prostate Cancer Recurrence: The interpretation of POSLUMA PET may differ depending on imaging readers, particularly in the prostate/prostate bed region. Because of the associated risk of false positive interpretation, consider multidisciplinary consultation and histopathological confirmation when clinical decision-making hinges on flotufolastat F 18 uptake only in the prostate/prostate bed region or only on uptake interpreted as borderline. POSLUMA use contributes to a patient’s overall long-term cumulative radiation exposure. Long-term cumulative radiation exposure is associated with an increased risk for cancer. Advise patients to hydrate before and after administration and to void frequently after administration. Ensure safe handling to minimize radiation exposure to the patient and health care providers. The adverse reactions reported in ≥0.4% of patients in clinical studies were diarrhea, blood pressure increase and injection site pain. Drug Interactions: androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) and other therapies targeting the androgen pathway, such as androgen receptor antagonists, may result in changes in uptake of flotufolastat F 18 in prostate cancer. The effect of these therapies on performance of POSLUMA PET has not been established. To report suspected adverse reactions to POSLUMA, call 1-844-POSLUMA (1-844-767-5862) or contact FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch . Full POSLUMA prescribing information is available at www.posluma.com/prescribing-information.pdf . About Blue Earth Diagnostics Blue Earth Diagnostics, an indirect subsidiary of Bracco Imaging S.p.A., is a growing international molecular imaging company focused on delivering innovative, well-differentiated diagnostic solutions that inform patient care. Formed in 2014, the Company’s success is driven by its management expertise and supported by a demonstrated track record of rapid development and commercialization of positron emission tomography (PET) radiopharmaceuticals. Blue Earth Diagnostics’ expanding oncology portfolio encompasses a variety of disease states, including prostate cancer and neuro-oncology. Blue Earth Diagnostics is committed to the timely development and commercialization of precision radiopharmaceuticals for potential use in imaging and therapy. For more information, please visit: www.blueearthdiagnostics.com . About Bracco Imaging Bracco Imaging S.p.A., part of the Bracco Group, is a world-leading diagnostic imaging provider. Headquartered in Milan, Italy, Bracco Imaging develops, manufactures and markets diagnostic imaging agents and solutions. It offers a product and solution portfolio for all key diagnostic imaging modalities: X-ray imaging (including Computed Tomography-CT, Interventional Radiology, and Cardiac Catheterization), Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), Contrast Enhanced Ultrasound (CEUS), and Nuclear Medicine through radioactive tracers and novel PET imaging agents to inform clinical management and guide care for cancer patients in areas of unmet medical need. Our continually evolving portfolio is completed by a range of medical devices, advanced administration systems and dose-management software. In 2019 Bracco Imaging enriched its product portfolio by expanding the range of oncology nuclear imaging solutions in the urology segment and other specialties with the acquisition of Blue Earth Diagnostics. In 2021, Bracco Imaging established Blue Earth Therapeutics as a separate, cutting-edge biotechnology vehicle to develop radiopharmaceutical therapies. Visit: www.braccoimaging.com . PP-rh-US-0581 This press release is for U.S. audiences only