Colonoscopy Preparation

A colonoscopy is a relatively fast and safe procedure. However, its safety and reliability depends on the correct preparation of the colon (large intestine) prior to the examination. Colon cleansing is necessary prior to having the procedure performed by your physician from Premier Gastroenterology. It is very important for the patient to follow the preparation recommended by the physician. In our practice, we recommend an osmotic laxative Miralax (generic name Glycolax) dissolved in any clear liquids. The effect is enhanced by taking Dulcolax tablets as part of the preparation.

If you suffer from constipation, the standard colon cleansing procedure may not be sufficient. Please call your physician’s nurse to ask for advice.

Purchase at the pharmacy: Two (2) Dulcolax tablets (Laxative), 238 gram bottle of Miralax and 64 ounce bottle of Gatorade or any clear fluid (any flavor EXCEPT any red or purple varieties). All products are available over the counter. No prescriptions required.

FIVE DAYS PRIOR TO EXAM

Five days prior to exam, begin to decrease the residue in your diet. Refrain from eating nuts, seeds, corn and popcorn. Discontinue fiber supplements, such as Metamucil, Citrucel, Fibercon, Benefiber, etc.

ONE DAY PRIOR TO EXAM

You are required to be on a clear liquid diet the entire day. No solid foods are allowed. Clear liquids include: water, juices (including orange, grapefruit and lemonade without pulp), tea, coffee, broths, jello, and popsicles. Exclude any fluids containing red or purple dye/food coloring.

4:00 pm – Take the two (2) Dulcolax tablets with at least 8 ounces of water.

6:00 pm – Mix the 238 grams of Miralax in 64 ounces of Gatorade or clear liquid. Shake the solution until the Miralax is dissolved. Drink an 8 ounce glass every 10–15 minutes until 5 glasses of the solution are consumed. Refrigerate the remaining Miralax mixture.

You may continue drinking CLEAR liquids until bedtime.

DAY OF EXAM

Three to four hours prior to your scheduled arrival time drink the remaining 3 glasses of the Miralax solution. Drink an 8 ounce glass every 10–15 minutes until solution is gone. You may take your morning prescription medications as usual the day of the procedure.

IMPORTANT: Notify physician or nurse if you are taking medication for diabetes (oral or injectable) and/or anticoagulants (blood thinners such as Coumadin, Warfarin, Pradaxa, Heparin, Plavix, or Ticlid) for further instructions.

With any questions, please call us at 281.392.0425, or contact us through the Patient Portal.
For a printable version of these instructions (PDF format) click on this link.

Please print and complete the “Pre-colonoscopy Patient Questionnaire.” After completion, please email the form to us at  contact@pgkaty.com. If you cannot email, you can fax it to us at 281.392.0250. You can also mail it to us or drop it by the office in person.

Once we receive the questionnaire via email, fax, mail or in person, you will be contacted by one of our employees within 3–5 business days. They will complete the pre-screening process and answer any questions you may have at that time. Please remember that you will be examined by the physician performing your colonoscopy prior to the procedure. At that time you will have the opportunity discuss any remaining issues.

Appointment times vary, and can be booked within a few days to a few weeks from the time of the request, depending on volume, so please send in the information as soon as possible so we can accommodate your schedule.