Idaho Gastroenterology Associates

 

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MIRALAX PREPARATION FOR COLONOSCOPY

PURCHASE AT THE PHARMACY:

• 4 Dulcolax (bisacodyl) tablets
• 238 gram bottle of Miralax (non prescription)
• 64 ounces of Gatorade, any flavor except red ones (e.g. X-factor)

FIVE DAYS PRIOR TO YOUR PROCEDURE:

• Stop all anti-inflammatory medications including aspirin, ibuprofen, motrin, aleve, naproxyn, naprosyn, sulindac, piroxicam, feldene, indomethacin, diclofenac, and voltaren. Tylenol (acetaminophen) is safe to use in place of the above medications.
• If you are taking coumadin, plavix (clopidogrel) or other blood thinners please contact our office to determine if and when you need to stop these medications
• Stop all fiber supplements including Metamucil, Citrucel, Benefiber, FiberChoice and flax seeds
• If you are diabetic and use insulin, please contact our office for insulin instructions
• PLEASE call our office if you have any questions about which medications you should or should not take

ONE DAY PRIOR TO YOUR PROCEDURE:

• Take only clear liquids by mouth. This includes clear juices (apple, grape, strained orange, strained lemonade), tea, coffee (no milk or creamer), soft drinks, sports drinks (Gatorade, Powerade), clear broth or bouillon, jello, Popsicles
• Avoid red drinks, red jello, and dairy products
• Consume large amounts of fluids to avoid hunger and dehydration
• At 10:00am take two (2) Dulcolax tablets - you may experience cramps and stools after ingestion
• At 3:00 pm take another two (2) Dulcolax tablets - you may experience cramps and stools after ingestion
• At 5:00 pm mix the full bottle of Miralax into 64 ounces of Gatorade. Shake until completely dissolved. Drink an 8-10 ounce glass of mixture every 10-15 minutes until the entire solution is gone. This will induce stools.
• You may continue consuming clears liquids before and after the above medications until 6 hours prior to your procedure

THE DAY OF THE PROCEDURE:

• DO NOT drink or eat anything by mouth for 6 hours prior to your procedure except medications (see below)
• Take your usual prescribed medications with small sips of water. If you are on anti-inflammatory medications or blood thinners please see instructions above.
• Please bring a list of your current medications and correct dosage to your appointment
• NO DRIVING - you cannot drive, use a taxi or a bus after the procedure. You must have someone present to drive you home after the procedure or we may cancel your procedure.