“The prep” is an important obstacle in the eyes of many patients when it comes to getting a colonoscopy, but it need not be! There are a variety of preparation methods for colonoscopy, ranging from liquids (of varying quantity) with or without enemas, to pills, which rid your colon of feces.
A clean colon is essential to allow for a careful examination for polyps or other abnormalities. Your doctor can discuss and prescribe the most appropriate preparation method for you, taking into account various factors such as your age, personal preferences, kidney function and physical stamina.
The most popular preparation used for colonoscopy involves drinking a volume of solution of polyethylene glycol (PEG). This solution causes a diarrhea that effectively rids the colon of its contents. Various fruit flavors are available and patients have several hours to drink it.
Usually a patient will have clear liquids the day of the preparation (the day before the colonoscopy). These can include broths, soft drinks, tea and coffee (with no milk or creamer), clear juices and Jell-O (but no red, blue or purple coloring).
Patients are encouraged to drink a lot of fluids and to continue clear liquids up until two hours before their scheduled procedure. Many doctors also prescribe a laxative pill, to be taken before going to bed, that helps with the evacuation process. Smaller volumes of a different solution or pill preparations also are available. The best method of colonic preparation should be discussed with the gastroenterologist so that a method that suits the patient’s preference and medical needs may be selected.
Make sure you receive your colonoscopy prep instructions well before your procedure date, and read them completely as soon as you get them. You’ll need to stop certain medications and foods up to a week ahead of time. This is also the time to call your doctor with any questions and to buy the bowel prep he or she has prescribed. Pick up some medicated wipes (for example, Tucks or adult wet wipes with aloe and vitamin E) and a skin-soothing product such as Vaseline or Desitin, since you will be spending a lot of time in the bathroom.
—Source: American Academy of Gastroenterology; Harvard Medical School
Good Neighbor Pharmacy Health Connection, March 2014
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