A clean colon is important for the best results
Having a clean colon is key to a successful colonoscopy. A clean colon allows your gastroenterologist to examine the entire colon to find and remove polyps. Unfortunately, up to a quarter of all colonoscopies are performed without adequate bowel cleansing resulting in a less complete colonoscopy and the need for a repeat examination.
While all colonoscopy prep medications can cause discomfort including cramping, bloating, nausea, or even vomiting, finding a bowel prep medication that has both tolerable taste and side effects, but is also effective, is important for the outcome of your colonoscopy.
A clean colon makes it easier to find and remove polyps.
GI doctors and clinics may have different protocols, be sure to follow the instructions from your physician and clarify any confusion with your health care provider in advance.
Learn more about available bowel prep options
TRADITIONAL
Brand Names: GoLYTELY®, Colyte®, NuLYTELY®, Trilyte®, GaviLyte™
Medication: 4L polyethylene glycol (PEG)
Pros
Highly effective & readily available.
Gentle for people with IBS symptoms.
Readily covered by insurance.
No significant shift in the body’s electrolyte balance.
Cons
Large volume.
Unappealing taste.
MODERN
Brand Names: Moviprep®, Plenvu®, SUFLAVE™
Medication:Low volume polyethylene glycol (PEG) with sulfate
Pros
Less volume.
Highly effective & readily available.
Gentle for people with IBS symptoms.
No significant shift in electrolytes.
Reported higher tolerability by patients.
Cons
Use with caution in people with kidney problems or heart arrhythmias.
Cost varies by insurance plan, co-pay, and deductible.*
Brand Names: SUPREP®
Medication: sulfate
Pros
Less volume.
Highly effective & readily available.
Gentle for people with IBS symptoms.
No significant shift in electrolytes.
Reported higher tolerability by patients.
Cons
Use with caution in people with kidney problems or heart arrhythmias.
Cost varies by insurance plan, co-pay, and deductible.*
Brand Names: SUTAB®
Medication: Oral sulfate tablets (OST)
Pros
Tablets.
No taste.
Low volume.
Reported higher tolerability by patients.
Cons
Not studied in people with kidney problems, electrolyte problems, heart failure, or during pregnancy.
Cost varies by insurance plan, co-pay, and deductible.*
Brand Names: CLENPIQ®
Medication: Sodium picosulfate + Magnesium oxide
Pros
Split dose.
Low volume.
Safe for children.
Tolerable taste.
Doesn’t need to be mixed or diluted.
Cons
Can cause severe dehydration and electrolyte imbalance.
Not safe for people with severe kidney problems.
Slightly lower efficacy than other modern low-volume options.
Cost varies by insurance plan, co-pay, and deductible.*
*Check the manufacturer’s website about savings offers or coupons for these prescriptions.
OVER THE COUNTER
Brand Names: Miralax® + Gatorade® with or without additional laxative
Medication: PEG3350 with or without Magnesium citrate or bisacodyl
Pros
Split dose.
Available over the counter.
Low cost.
Reported higher tolerability by patients.
Cons
Not FDA approved for colonoscopy prep.
Not covered by insurance.
Less effective than some prescription preps.
Can cause electrolyte problems.
Magnesium citrate not recommended for patients with kidney, liver, and/or heart diseases or for older adults.
Talk with your doctor about your preferences and discuss your options. Always use the bowel prep medication your doctor prescribes.
Questions to Ask
Your gastroenterologist about the prep they prescribe and how to request alternatives
- I’m concerned about the taste and volume of the prep, what are my options?
- Do my current health conditions or medication affect which colon prep drug is appropriate for me?
- I had a bad experience using XYZ prep the last time, do I have other options this time?
Your insurance company
- Is my preferred colonoscopy prep covered by my insurance plan?
- How do I appeal coverage for an FDA approved colonoscopy prep that has been denied insurance coverage?
Colonoscopy Prep Tips from Patients
- Most patients report the prep is the hardest part of the colonoscopy
- Start a low residue diet a couple days before
- Chill the liquid mixture
- Use a straw at the back of the mouth
- Suck on a piece of hard candy while drinking
- Talk to your doctor about ways to prevent nausea, including anti-nausea medication
- Add flavoring to the clear liquid preps (as directed or approved by your doctor, not red or purple)
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Information on these pages is provided for informational purposes only. Consult your own physician before making any medical decisions.