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.
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, 30 ounces of Citrate of Magnesia(three 10 oz. bottles). No prescription needed.
- Purchase 125mg of Simethicone (Gas X). No prescription needed.
Three days before procedure:
- Avoid corn, popcorn, and foods with seeds, nuts, raw fruits, and raw vegetables.
Day before / 24 hours before procedure:
- After waking in the morning, start a clear liquid diet, drinking at least 1 large glass (8 oz.) of clear liquids every hour until you go to bed. You may not have any solid foods until after your colonoscopy. No liquids with red, blue, purple, or orange coloring. No alcohol.
Consume only: -
- Broth
- Italian Ice (with 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
4:00 pm day before procedure:
- Drink one 10 oz. bottle of Citrate of Magnesium. Continue to drink plenty of clear liquids all evening (at least 64 oz.).
- Individual responses to laxatives vary; this prep may cause multiple bowel movements. It often works within 30 minutes but may take as long as 3 hours. For your comfort remain within easy reach of toilet facilities.
6:00 pm day before procedure:
- Drink one 10 oz. bottle of Citrate of Magnesium. Continue to drink plenty of clear liquids all evening (at least 64 oz.).
Four hours before procedure (may need to wake at night):
- Drink another 10 oz. bottle of Citrate of Magnesia, followed by 1 glass of clear liquid.
- After consuming remainder of prep, take 125 mg Simethicone (Gas X).
- 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 provide transportation after your procedure. No taxis or public transportation acceptable. Failure to comply may result in cancellation of procedure.
Day following procedure
- May begin driving or operating machinery.