The purpose of this prep is to clean your colon. The cleaner your colon is prior to your exam, the more likely we are to locate any abnormalities.
Ensure a safe and effective colon prep by following these instructions exactly as directed below.
- At first appointment tell your doctor if you are taking any blood thinner/coagulant medications other than aspirin.
Several days before procedure:
- It is very important that you remain well hydrated for a number of days prior to and after the procedure. Gatorade® or sports drinks will result in better hydration than drinking just water alone.
- Purchase, over the counter at any pharmacy, a bottle of Miralax (238gm) and 4 Dulcolax (Bisacodyl) 5 mg laxative tablets. No prescription needed.
Three days before procedure:
- Avoid corn, popcorn, and foods with seeds, nuts, and raw vegetables.
Day before / 24 hours before procedure:
- Start a clear liquid diet. No solid food until after your colonoscopy. No red, orange, blue, or purple foods or drinks. Consume only:
- Broth
- Italian Ice (no fruit pieces) / Popsicles
- Jell-O
- Water
- Black Tea/Coffee (No Milk or Cream)
- Soda
- Crystal Light
- Hard Candy
- Fruit Juice without Pulp
- White Grape Juice
- Gatorade / Sport Drinks
- Apple Juice
- After waking in morning drink at least 8 oz. (1 large glass) of clear liquids every hour until you go to bed.
1:00 pm day before procedure:
- Take 2 Dulcolax (Bisacodyl) laxative tablets
5:00 pm day before procedure:
- Mix Miralax 238gm bottle with 64oz of Gatorade (clear, yellow or green only). Divide solution, placing half in refrigerator. With the other half, drink an 8oz glass every 10-20 minutes until gone.
9:00 pm day before procedure:
- Take 2 Dulcolax (Bisacodyl) laxative tablets
Five hours before procedure (may need to wake during night):
- Drink remainder of solution; continue your clear liquid diet until 3 hours before procedure. The timing of this dose is important and should not be altered.
Three hours before procedure:
- Nothing further by mouth, with the exception of any medications. Medications may be taken with small sips of water.
Day of procedure:
- You will need a ride home from the hospital.
- Hospital policy requires a responsible person over the age 18 to provide transportation after your procedure. No taxis or public transportation acceptable. Failure to comply may result in cancellation of procedure.
- Drink at least 6 more 8 oz. glasses of clear liquid prior to bedtime.
Day following procedure
- May begin driving or operating machinery.