Morning: DO NOT consume any solid food, any dairy products, or anything red or purple in color the entire day before your colonoscopy. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids throughout the day.
Mix bowel prep and place in the refrigerator .
Then, begin a clear liquid diet, including water, clear chicken or beef broths, strained fruit juices (such as apple juice, white grape juice, or lemonade), sports drinks, coffee or tea (no cream/milk), jello, or popsicles (AVOID PURPLE OR RED COLORS) Avoid red or purple liquids, as they may be mistaken for blood during the procedure.
Afternoon/Evening: Start the prescribed bowel prep solution as directed by your healthcare provider. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids throughout the day.
- GoLYTELY 4L solution
- Drink 1/2 of bowel prep starting at 5pm:
- Drink 8 ounces of prep every 10-15 minutes until half of the solution is completed.
- 8 hours prior to colonoscopy: drink the other half of bowel prep
- Timing is crucial. For an early procedure, you may need to start drinking your bowel prep in the middle of the night. Drink 8 ounces of prep every 10-15 minutes until half of the solution is completed.
- MiraLAX over-the-counter bowel prep: 1 bottle (238 g) MiraLAX, dulcolax 5 mg, 64 ounces of Gatorade
- At 3 pm take 2 dulcolax tablets
- At 5 pm, mix 238 gram MiraLAX in 64 ounces of Gatorade or water. Drink one 8 ounce glass every 10-15 minutes until half of solution is consumed
- 8 hours prior to colonoscopy: drink the rest of the bowel prep. You may continue to drink clear liquids up to 2 hours prior to arrival time. Nothing by mouth 2 hours prior to arrival time.
Follow the recommended dosage and instructions on the bowel prep solution packaging. Drink the solution at a steady pace, taking small sips over the recommended time frame. Expect bowel movements to begin within a few hours. Stay near a bathroom as the cleansing process takes place. Continue drinking clear liquids to prevent dehydration.
Tips for a Smoother Bowel Prep:
- Chill the solution before drinking to make it more palatable.
- Use a straw to bypass taste buds and minimize the aftertaste.
- Clear, cold liquids (water, clear broths, popsicles) between doses can be refreshing.
- Avoid red or purple liquids to prevent confusion with blood during the procedure.
Remember, it is crucial to follow your healthcare provider’s specific instructions. If you experience severe discomfort, dehydration, or have concerns during the bowel prep process, contact your healthcare provider promptly.
