Bowel Prep Guide

A successful colonoscopy requires successful preparation, but prep is often the most dreaded part of a
colonoscopy. We’ve got helpful tips and information to make sure you get it right the first time.

Bowel Prep Guide

A successful colonoscopy requires successful preparation, but prep is often the most dreaded part of a colonoscopy. We’ve got helpful tips and information to make sure you get it right the first time.

Bowel Prep Guide

A successful colonoscopy requires successful preparation, but prep is often the most dreaded part of a colonoscopy. We’ve got helpful tips and information to make sure you get it right the first time.

Why Colonoscopy?

For most people at average risk of developing colon cancer, screening starts at age 45.

There are multiple screening options available, including stool tests y blood tests, but colonoscopy is still considered the “gold standard” screening test because of its effectiveness and efficiency in cancer prevention.

In order for a colonoscopy to be effective, the physician must be able to get a thorough view of your colon, and in order for that to happen, you need to prepare your bowel beforehand.

Prep is often the most dreaded part of a colonoscopy, but it doesn’t need to be a cause of anxiety. We’ve put together information on the most common bowel prep methods below, along with some helpful tips.

Why Colonoscopy?

For most people at average risk of developing colon cancer, screening starts at age 45.

There are multiple screening options available, including stool tests y blood tests, but colonoscopy is still considered the “gold standard” screening test because of its effectiveness and efficiency in cancer prevention.

In order for a colonoscopy to be effective, the physician must be able to get a thorough view of your colon, and in order for that to happen, you need to prepare your bowel beforehand.

Prep is often the most dreaded part of a colonoscopy, but it doesn’t need to be a cause of anxiety. We’ve put together information on the most common bowel prep methods below, along with some helpful tips.

Why Colonoscopy?

For most people at average risk of developing colon cancer, screening starts at age 45.

There are multiple screening options available, including stool tests y blood tests, but colonoscopy is still considered the “gold standard” screening test because of its effectiveness and efficiency in cancer prevention.

In order for a colonoscopy to be effective, the physician must be able to get a thorough view of your colon, and in order for that to happen, you need to prepare your bowel beforehand.

Prep is often the most dreaded part of a colonoscopy, but it doesn’t need to be a cause of anxiety. We’ve put together information on the most common bowel prep methods below, along with some helpful tips.

Prep Instructions

In many cases, when your physician orders a colonoscopy, they’ll also write you a prescription for their preferred prep method. Most bowel preps require a prescription. While all prescription bowel preps come with instructions, your doctor will likely have their own set of instructions.

In general, bowel prep begins the day before a colonoscopy and ends when you complete your colonoscopy:

  • Fasting the day before the colonoscopy
  • Begin taking the bowel pre in the afternoon
  • Split-dose methods may be offered if your colonoscopy is scheduled for the afternoon.
  • Split-dose means you may take the last of the bowel prep the morning of your colonoscopy.

A few essential steps:

  • Order ahead – don’t wait until the day before your colonoscopy to pick it up. Sometimes pharmacies don’t have the bowel prep you need in stock, and they will need to order it – which can take a few days.
  • Stay in communication with your doctor’s office. If you’re sick, if you don’t think it’s working, or if you need an alternative, let your doctor know.
  • Complete all of the prep. If you don’t drink everything (or take all of the pills), your colonoscopy may be ineffective, and you may even have to reschedule (and repeat the prep!)

Prep Instructions

In many cases, when your physician orders a colonoscopy, they’ll also write you a prescription for their preferred prep method. Most bowel preps require a prescription. While all prescription bowel preps come with instructions, your doctor will likely have their own set of instructions.

In general, bowel prep begins the day before a colonoscopy and ends when you complete your colonoscopy:

  • Fasting the day before the colonoscopy
  • Begin taking the bowel pre in the afternoon
  • Split-dose methods may be offered if your colonoscopy is scheduled for the afternoon.
  • Split-dose means you may take the last of the bowel prep the morning of your colonoscopy.

A few essential steps:

  • Order ahead – don’t wait until the day before your colonoscopy to pick it up. Sometimes pharmacies don’t have the bowel prep you need in stock, and they will need to order it – which can take a few days.
  • Stay in communication with your doctor’s office. If you’re sick, if you don’t think it’s working, or if you need an alternative, let your doctor know.
  • Complete all of the prep. If you don’t drink everything (or take all of the pills), your colonoscopy may be ineffective, and you may even have to reschedule (and repeat the prep!)

Prep Instructions

In many cases, when your physician orders a colonoscopy, they’ll also write you a prescription for their preferred prep method. Most bowel preps require a prescription. While all prescription bowel preps come with instructions, your doctor will likely have their own set of instructions.

In general, bowel prep begins the day before a colonoscopy and ends when you complete your colonoscopy:

  • Fasting the day before the colonoscopy
  • Begin taking the bowel pre in the afternoon
  • Split-dose methods may be offered if your colonoscopy is scheduled for the afternoon.
  • Split-dose means you may take the last of the bowel prep the morning of your colonoscopy.

A few essential steps:

  • Order ahead – don’t wait until the day before your colonoscopy to pick it up. Sometimes pharmacies don’t have the bowel prep you need in stock, and they will need to order it – which can take a few days.
  • Stay in communication with your doctor’s office. If you’re sick, if you don’t think it’s working, or if you need an alternative, let your doctor know.
  • Complete all of the prep. If you don’t drink everything (or take all of the pills), your colonoscopy may be ineffective, and you may even have to reschedule (and repeat the prep!)

Split Dosing

A “split-dose” regimen uses the same volume of bowel prep but splits the dosage in two: one dose in the evening, and one dose in the morning of your procedure date. Split dosing may be easier to tolerate for some people and has been shown to be an effective method of bowel prep administration.

All of the bowel prep options include instructions for a split-dose regimen. If you are interested in splitting your prep dose, discuss this with your physician so you can schedule your colonoscopy for an appropriate time and receive clear instructions on how to take your prep.

A split-dose regimen typically follows these instructions:

  • Do not consume the entire bowel cleansing agent at once or on the same day.
  • Take half the total dose of the bowel cleansing agent the evening before your colonoscopy. This is usually between 5:00-7:00 PM.
  • Continue to consume clear liquid diet after the first dose of the bowel cleansing agent.
  • Take the second half of your bowel cleansing agent on the day of your colonoscopy, about 4-5 hours before your scheduled colonoscopy.
  • Do not consume anything at least 2 hours before your colonoscopy.

Split Dosing

A “split-dose” regimen uses the same volume of bowel prep but splits the dosage in two: one dose in the evening, and one dose in the morning of your procedure date. Split dosing may be easier to tolerate for some people and has been shown to be an effective method of bowel prep administration.

All of the bowel prep options include instructions for a split-dose regimen. If you are interested in splitting your prep dose, discuss this with your physician so you can schedule your colonoscopy for an appropriate time and receive clear instructions on how to take your prep.

A split-dose regimen typically follows these instructions:

  • Do not consume the entire bowel cleansing agent at once or on the same day.
  • Take half the total dose of the bowel cleansing agent the evening before your colonoscopy. This is usually between 5:00-7:00 PM.
  • Continue to consume clear liquid diet after the first dose of the bowel cleansing agent.
  • Take the second half of your bowel cleansing agent on the day of your colonoscopy, about 4-5 hours before your scheduled colonoscopy.
  • Do not consume anything at least 2 hours before your colonoscopy.

Split Dosing

A “split-dose” regimen uses the same volume of bowel prep but splits the dosage in two: one dose in the evening, and one dose in the morning of your procedure date. Split dosing may be easier to tolerate for some people and has been shown to be an effective method of bowel prep administration.

All of the bowel prep options include instructions for a split-dose regimen. If you are interested in splitting your prep dose, discuss this with your physician so you can schedule your colonoscopy for an appropriate time and receive clear instructions on how to take your prep.

A split-dose regimen typically follows these instructions:

  • Do not consume the entire bowel cleansing agent at once or on the same day.
  • Take half the total dose of the bowel cleansing agent the evening before your colonoscopy. This is usually between 5:00-7:00 PM.
  • Continue to consume clear liquid diet after the first dose of the bowel cleansing agent.
  • Take the second half of your bowel cleansing agent on the day of your colonoscopy, about 4-5 hours before your scheduled colonoscopy.
  • Do not consume anything at least 2 hours before your colonoscopy.

Common Bowel Preps

Below are some of the most commonly utilized bowel prep methods with general instructions on how to use them. Remember: If the instructions listed below differ from your physician’s instructions, follow the guidance of your doctor.

GoLYTELY® is a large volume liquid prep that you drink before your procedure to flush and cleanse your bowels. Follow all included dosage instructions as provided by your prescribing doctor.

What do I do the day before the colonoscopy?

  • Have a clear liquid diet throughout the day. Clear liquid diet excludes red and purple colored substances. No solid foods, milk products, fruits, seeds & nuts. Be sure to keep hydrated by drinking 8oz of clear liquid every hour. If you have diabetes mellitus, you may need to take half the dose of your medication while on clear liquid diet. Please, talk to your provider about this.
  • Mix your bowel prep agent with water as instructed in the package label.
  • Refrigerate to chill.
  • Starting at 5.00-6.00PM, Drink the bowel prep agent at a rate of 8oz every 10-15mins until 4L is completed.

What do I do on the day of the colonoscopy?

  • You may take your morning medications as usual unless directed otherwise by your doctor.
  • Avoid further fluid intake 2hrs before your scheduled colonoscopy.
  • If you are diabetic, do not take oral diabetic medications or short-acting insulin on the day of your colonoscopy. Talk to your provider about this.

You may also try a split-dose method when using GoLYTELY®:

What do I do a day before the colonoscopy?

  • Have a clear liquid diet throughout the day. Clear liquid diet excludes red and purple colored substances. No solid foods, milk products, fruits, seeds & nuts.
  • Be sure to keep hydrated by drinking 8oz of clear liquid every hour.
  • If you have diabetes mellitus, you may need to take half the dose of your medication while on clear liquid diet. Please, talk to your provider about this.
  • Mix your bowel prep agent with water as instructed in the package label.
  • Refrigerate to chill.
  • Starting at 5.00-6.00PM, Drink the 1st half of the bowel prep agent at a rate of 8oz every 10-15mins until 2L is completed.

What do I do on the day of the colonoscopy?

  • Drink the 2nd half of the bowel prep agent (2L). Start 4hrs before your scheduled colonoscopy. Drink at a rate of 8oz every 10-15mins until finished. Be sure to finish 2 hrs before your scheduled colonoscopy.
  • Be sure to keep hydrated by drinking 8oz of clear liquid every hour in addition to your prep agent. Avoid further fluid intake 2hrs before your scheduled colonoscopy.
  • If you are diabetic, do not take oral diabetic medications or short-acting insulin on the day of your colonoscopy. Talk to your provider about this.

CLENPIQ® is a ready-to-drink low volume bowel prep agent. “Low volume” means less to drink compared to other bowel preps, like GoLYTELY®. Follow all included dosage instructions as provided by your prescribing doctor.

What do I do a day before the colonoscopy?

  • Have a clear liquid diet throughout the day. Clear liquid diet excludes red and purple colored substances. No solid foods, milk products, fruits, seeds & nuts.
  • Be sure to keep hydrated by drinking 8oz of clear liquid every hour.
  • If you have diabetes mellitus, you may need to take half the dose of your medication while on clear liquid diet. Please, talk to your provider about this.
  • Take the first dose (1 bottle) of CLENPIQ® in the afternoon or early evening before the colonoscopy (e.g., 4:00 to 6:00 PM).
  • Following the CLENPIQ® dose, drink five 8-ounce cups (cup provided) of clear liquids (40 ounces total) within 5 hours and before the next dose.
  • If severe bloating, distention, or abdominal pain occurs, following the first dose, delay the second dose until the symptoms resolve.
  • Dose 2 – Approximately 6 hours later in the evening the night before the colonoscopy (e.g., 10:00 PM to 12:00 AM):Take the second dose (the second bottle) of CLENPIQ®.
  • Following the CLENPIQ® dose, drink three 8-ounce cups (cup provided) (24 ounces) of clear liquids within 5 hours and before bed.

What do I do on the day of the colonoscopy?

  • You may take your morning medications as usual unless as directed by your doctor.
  • Avoid further fluid intake 2 hrs before your scheduled colonoscopy.
  • If you are diabetic, do not take oral diabetic medications or short-acting insulin on the day of your colonoscopy. Talk to your provider about this.

For a split dose method, follow these instructions:

What do I do a day before the colonoscopy?

  • Have a clear liquid diet throughout the day. Clear liquid diet excludes red and purple colored substances. No solid foods, milk products, fruits, seeds & nuts.
  • Be sure to keep hydrated by drinking 8oz of clear liquid every hour.
  • If you have diabetes mellitus, you may need to take half the dose of your medication while on clear liquid diet. Please, talk to your provider about this.
  • Take the first dose (1 bottle) of CLENPIQ® during the evening before the colonoscopy (e.g., 5:00 to 9:00 PM).
  • Follow CLENPIQ by drinking five 8-ounce cups (cup provided) of clear liquids (40 ounces total) within 5 hours and before bed.
  • If severe bloating, distention, or abdominal pain occurs, following the first dose, delay the second dose until the symptoms resolve.

What do I do on the day of the colonoscopy?

  • Take the second dose (the second bottle) of CLENPIQ® 4-5 hours before your scheduled colonoscopy.
  • Following the CLENPIQ® dose, drink at least three 8-ounce cups (cup provided) of clear liquids (24 ounces).
  • Be sure to keep hydrated by drinking 8oz of clear liquid every hour. Avoid further fluid intake 2 hours before your scheduled colonoscopy.
  • If you are diabetic, do not take oral diabetic medications or short-acting insulin on the day of your colonoscopy. Talk to your provider about this.
SUPREP® is a low volume bowel prep agent. Follow all included dosage instructions as provided by your prescribing doctor.

What do I do a day before the colonoscopy?

  • Have a clear liquid diet throughout the day. Clear liquid diet excludes red and purple colored substances. No solid foods, milk products, fruits, seeds & nuts.
  • Be sure to keep hydrated by drinking 8oz of clear liquid every hour.
  • If you have diabetes mellitus, you may need to take half the dose of your medication while on clear liquid diet. Please, talk to your provider about this.
  • Pour the contents of one bottle of SUPREP® Bowel Prep Kit into the mixing container provided.
  • Fill the container with water to the 16 ounce fill line, and drink the entire amount around 5:00-6:00PM.
  • Drink two additional containers filled to the 16 ounce line with water over the next hour.
  • Around 10:00-11:00PM, pour the contents of the second bottle of SUPREP® Bowel Prep Kit into the mixing container provided. Fill the container with water to the 16 ounce fill line, and drink the entire amount.
  • Drink two additional containers filled to the 16 ounce line with water over the next hour.

What do I do on the day of the colonoscopy?

  • You may take your morning medications as usual unless as directed by your doctor.
  • Avoid further fluid intake 2hrs before your scheduled colonoscopy.
  • If you are diabetic, do not take oral diabetic medications or short-acting insulin on the day of your colonoscopy. Talk to your provider about this.
  • You may also use a split-dose method with SUPREP®.

What do I do a day before the colonoscopy?

  • Have a clear liquid diet throughout the day. Clear liquid diet excludes red and purple colored substances. No solid foods, milk products, fruits, seeds & nuts.
  • Be sure to keep hydrated by drinking 8oz of clear liquid every hour.
  • If you have diabetes mellitus, you may need to take half the dose of your medication while on clear liquid diet. Please, talk to your provider about this.
  • Pour the contents of one bottle of SUPREP® Bowel Prep Kit into the mixing container provided.
  • Fill the container with water to the 16 ounce fill line, and drink the entire amount around 5:00-6:00PM.
  • Drink two additional containers filled to the 16 ounce line with water over the next hour.

What do I do on the day of the colonoscopy?

  • Pour the contents of the second bottle of SUPREP® Bowel Prep Kit into the mixing container provided. Fill the container with water to the 16 ounce fill line, and drink the entire amount 4 hours before your scheduled colonoscopy.
  • Drink two additional containers filled to the 16 ounce line with water over the next hour.
  • Be sure to keep hydrated by drinking 8oz of clear liquid every hour. Avoid further fluid intake 2hrs before your scheduled colonoscopy.
  • If you are diabetic, do not take oral diabetic medications or short-acting insulin on the day of your colonoscopy. Talk to your provider about this.
Prepopik™ is a powered bowel prep agent that you mix with water on your own. Follow all included dosage instructions as provided by your prescribing doctor.

What do I do a day before the colonoscopy?

  • Have a clear liquid diet throughout the day. Clear liquid diet excludes red and purple colored substances. No solid foods, milk products, fruits, seeds & nuts.
  • Be sure to keep hydrated by drinking 8oz of clear liquid every hour.
  • If you have diabetes mellitus, you may need to take half the dose of your medication while on clear liquid diet. Please, talk to your provider about this.
  • Prepopik™ is supplied as two packets of powder.
  • The first packet is dissolved in 5oz of cold water. Drink this around 4:00-5:00PM. Then, drink five 8oz cups of clear liquid. Around 10:00-11:00PM, dissolve the second packet in 5oz of cold water and drink. Then, drink at least three 8oz cups of clear liquid.

What do I do on the day of the colonoscopy?

  • You may take your morning medications as usual unless as directed by your doctor.
  • Avoid further fluid intake 2hrs before your scheduled colonoscopy.
  • If you are diabetic, do not take oral diabetic medications or short-acting insulin on the day of your colonoscopy. Talk to your provider about this.

For split-dose method, follow these instructions:

What do I do a day before the colonoscopy?

  • Have a clear liquid diet throughout the day. Clear liquid diet excludes red and purple colored substances. No solid foods, milk products, fruits, seeds & nuts.
  • Be sure to keep hydrated by drinking 8oz of clear liquid every hour.
  • If you have diabetes mellitus, you may need to take half the dose of your medication while on clear liquid diet. Please, talk to your provider about this.
  • Prepopik™ is supplied as two packets of powder. Use the first packet a day before the colonoscopy.
  • The first packet is dissolved in 5oz of cold water. Drink this around 5:00-6:00PM. Then, drink five 8oz cups of clear liquid.

What do I do on the day of the colonoscopy?

  • The second packet is dissolved in 5oz of cold water. Drink this 4 hours before your scheduled colonoscopy. Then, drink at least three 8oz cups of clear liquid.
  • Avoid further fluid intake 2hrs before your scheduled colonoscopy.
  • If you are diabetic, do not take oral diabetic medications or short-acting insulin on the day of your colonoscopy. Talk to your provider about this.
MoviPrep® is a powered bowel prep agent you mix with water at home. Follow all included dosage instructions as provided by your prescribing doctor.

What do I do a day before the colonoscopy?

  • Have a clear liquid diet throughout the day. Clear liquid diet excludes red and purple colored substances. No solid foods, milk products, fruits, seeds & nuts.
  • Be sure to keep hydrated by drinking 8oz of clear liquid every hour.
  • If you have diabetes mellitus, you may need to take half the dose of your medication while on clear liquid diet. Please, talk to your provider about this.

Follow the following steps:

  1. Step 1: Empty the contents of 1 pouch A and 1 pouch B into the container that comes with MoviPrep®.
  2. Step 2: Add lukewarm water to the Fill line on the container.
  3. Step 3: Mix to completely dissolve the contents of pouch A and B into the lukewarm water.
  4. Step 4: Around 5:00-6:00PM, drink one 8oz (ounce) glass (240 mL) every 15 minutes. Be sure to drink all of the solution. This should take about 1 hour.
  5. Step 5: Fill the container with 16oz (two 8oz glasses) of clear liquid and drink all of this liquid.

Around 10:00-11:00PM, take the 2nd dose by doing the following:

  1. Repeat steps 1 through 4 from Dose 1
  2. Fill the container with 16oz (two 8oz glasses) of clear liquid and drink all of this liquid.

What do I do on the day of the colonoscopy?

  • You may take your morning medications as usual unless as directed by your doctor.
  • Avoid further fluid intake 2hrs before your scheduled colonoscopy.
  • If you are diabetic, do not take oral diabetic medications or short-acting insulin on the day of your colonoscopy. Talk to your provider about this.

For a split-dose method, follow these instructions:

What do I do a day before the colonoscopy?

  • Have a clear liquid diet throughout the day. Clear liquid diet excludes red and purple colored substances. No solid foods, milk products, fruits, seeds & nuts.
  • Be sure to keep hydrated by drinking 8oz of clear liquid every hour.
  • If you have diabetes mellitus, you may need to take half the dose of your medication while on clear liquid diet. Please, talk to your provider about this.

Follow the following steps:

  1. Step 1: Empty the contents of 1 pouch A and 1 pouch B into the container that comes with MoviPrep®.
  2. Step 2: Add lukewarm water to the Fill line on the container.
  3. Step 3: Mix to completely dissolve the contents of pouch A and B into the lukewarm water.
  4. Step 4: Around 5:00-6:00PM, drink one 8oz glass (240 mL) every 15 minutes. Be sure to drink all of the solution. This should take about 1 hour.
  5. Step 5: Fill the container with 16oz (two 8oz glasses) of clear liquid and drink all of this liquid before going to bed.

What do I do on the day of the colonoscopy?

Follow the following steps:

  1. Step 1: Repeat steps 1 through 4 from Dose 1 of the Split-dose (2-Day) instructions.
  2. Step 2: Fill the container with 16oz of clear liquid and drink all of this liquid 4 hours before the scheduled colonoscopy.
  3. Step 3: Drink only clear liquids up to 2 hours before the colonoscopy or as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Then stop drinking liquids until after the colonoscopy.
  • Be sure to keep hydrated by drinking 8oz of clear liquid every hour. Avoid further fluid intake 2hrs before your scheduled colonoscopy.
  • If you are diabetic, do not take oral diabetic medications or short-acting insulin on the day of your colonoscopy. Talk to your provider about this.
PLENVU® is a low-volume powdered prep agent that you mix with water at home. Follow all included dosage instructions as provided by your prescribing doctor.

What do I do a day before the colonoscopy?

  • Have a clear liquid diet throughout the day. Clear liquid diet excludes red and purple colored substances. No solid foods, milk products, fruits, seeds & nuts.
  • Be sure to keep hydrated by drinking 8oz of clear liquid every hour.
  • If you have diabetes mellitus, you may need to take half the dose of your medication while on clear liquid diet. Please, talk to your provider about this.
  • Open the carton and remove the dose 1 sachet.
  • Pour the contents of dose 1 into a measuring container that can hold 500 ml of fluid.
  • Add water to make up to 500 ml and stir until all the powder has dissolved. This may take up to approximately 8 minutes.
  • Drink the 500 ml PLENVU® dose 1 solution over 30 minutes by drinking 1 glassful every 10 to 15 minutes. This should be done in the afternoon or early evening before the colonoscopy (e.g., 4:00 to 6:00 PM).
  • Following the PLENVU® dose, drink a further 500 ml of clear fluid over a further 30 minutes.
  • If severe bloating, distention, or abdominal pain occurs, following the first dose, delay the second dose until the symptoms resolve.
  • Dose 2 – Approximately 6 hours later in the evening the night before the colonoscopy (e.g., 10:00 PM to 12:00 AM):Take the second dose of PLENVU®.
  • Pour the contents of dose 2 into a measuring container that can hold 500 ml of fluid.
  • Add water to make up to 500 ml and stir until all the powder has dissolved. This may take up to approximately 8 minutes.
  • Drink the 500 ml PLENVU® dose 2 solution over 30 minutes by drinking 1 glassful every 10 to 15 minutes.
  • Following the PLENVU® dose, drink a further 500 ml of clear fluid over a further 30 minutes.

What do I do on the day of the colonoscopy?

  • You may take your morning medications as usual unless as directed by your doctor.
  • Avoid further fluid intake 2 hrs before your scheduled colonoscopy.
  • If you are diabetic, do not take oral diabetic medications or short-acting insulin on the day of your colonoscopy. Talk to your provider about this.

For split-dose administration, follow these instructions:

What do I do a day before the colonoscopy?

  • Have a clear liquid diet throughout the day. Clear liquid diet excludes red and purple colored substances. No solid foods, milk products, fruits, seeds & nuts.
  • Be sure to keep hydrated by drinking 8oz of clear liquid every hour.
  • If you have diabetes mellitus, you may need to take half the dose of your medication while on clear liquid diet. Please, talk to your provider about this.
  • Take the first dose of PLENVU® during the evening before the colonoscopy (e.g., 5:00 to 9:00 PM).
  • Open the carton and remove the dose 1 sachet.
  • Pour the contents of dose 1 into a measuring container that can hold 500 ml of fluid.
  • Add water to make up to 500 ml and stir until all the powder has dissolved. This may take up to approximately 8 minutes.
  • Drink the 500 ml PLENVU® dose 1 solution over 30 minutes by drinking 1 glassful every 10 to 15 minutes.
  • Following the PLENVU® dose, drink a further 500 ml of clear fluid over a further 30 minutes.
  • If severe bloating, distention, or abdominal pain occurs, following the first dose, delay the second dose until the symptoms resolve.

What do I do on the day of the colonoscopy?

  • Take the second dose of PLENVU® 4-5 hours before your scheduled colonoscopy.
  • Pour the contents of dose 2 into a measuring container that can hold 500 ml of fluid.
  • Add water to make up to 500 ml and stir until all the powder has dissolved. This may take up to approximately 8 minutes.
  • Drink the 500 ml PLENVU® dose 2 solution over 30 minutes by drinking 1 glassful every 10 to 15 minutes.
  • Following the PLENVU® dose, drink a further 500 ml of clear fluid over a further 30 minutes.
  • Avoid further fluid intake 2 hours before your scheduled colonoscopy.
  • If you are diabetic, do not take oral diabetic medications or short-acting insulin on the day of your colonoscopy. Talk to your provider about this.
OsmoPrep® is a tablet prep that is taken to cleanse the bowel. Some may find this option preferable to a large-volume liquid prep solution. Follow all included dosage instructions as provided by your prescribing doctor.

What do I do a day before the colonoscopy?

  • Have a clear liquid diet throughout the day. Clear liquid diet excludes red and purple colored substances. No solid foods, milk products, fruits, seeds & nuts.
  • If you have diabetes mellitus, you may need to take half the dose of your medication while on clear liquid diet. Please, talk to your provider about this.
  • Starting around 5:00-6:00PM, take 20 tablets of OsmoPrep® with 40oz of water.
  • Be sure to keep hydrated by drinking 8oz of clear liquid every hour.
  • Starting around 10:00-11:00PM, take 12 tablets of OsmoPrep® with 24oz of water.

What do I do on the day of the colonoscopy?

  • You may take your morning medications as usual unless as directed by your doctor.
  • Avoid further fluid intake 2hrs before your scheduled colonoscopy.
  • If you are diabetic, do not take oral diabetic medications or short-acting insulin on the day of your colonoscopy. Talk to your provider about this.

For a split-dose method follow these instructions:

What do I do a day before the colonoscopy?

  • Have a clear liquid diet throughout the day. Clear liquid diet excludes red and purple colored substances. No solid foods, milk products, fruits, seeds & nuts.
  • If you have diabetes mellitus, you may need to take half the dose of your medication while on clear liquid diet. Please, talk to your provider about this.
  • Starting around 5:00-6:00PM, take 20 tablets of OsmoPrep® with 40oz of water.
  • Be sure to keep hydrated by drinking 8oz of clear liquid every hour.

What do I do on the day of the colonoscopy?

  • Take 12 tablets of OsmoPrep® with 24oz of water starting 4-5 hours before the start of your colonoscopy procedure.
  • You may have clear liquid thereafter.
  • Avoid further fluid intake 2hrs before your scheduled colonoscopy.
  • If you are diabetic, do not take oral diabetic medications or short-acting insulin on the day of your colonoscopy. Talk to your provider about this.
Instead of writing you a prescription for prep, your doctor may advise you to use an over-the-counter (OTC) alternative. OTC methods can provide satisfactory prep results, but it is important that you follow the instructions provided to you closely. Some physicians do not advise this option, as it produces an inferior prep compared to prescription bowel preps; however, it’s a cost-effective option and may be tolerated better.

Before you utilize this bowel prep method, talk to your doctor.

What do I do a day before the colonoscopy?

  • Have a clear liquid diet throughout the day. Clear liquid diet excludes red and purple colored substances. No solid foods, milk products, fruits, seeds & nuts.
  • Be sure to keep hydrated by drinking 8oz of clear liquid every hour.
  • If you have diabetes mellitus, you may need to take half the dose of your medication while on clear liquid diet. Please, talk to your provider about this.
  • Mix 255 g of MiraLAX® with 64oz of low-calorie Gatorade®
  • Drink the solution at a rate of 8oz every 10 min starting at 5:00-6:00PM.

What do I do on the day of the colonoscopy?

  • You may take your morning medications as usual unless as directed by your doctor.
  • Avoid further fluid intake 2hrs before your scheduled colonoscopy.
  • If you are diabetic, do not take oral diabetic medications or short-acting insulin on the day of your colonoscopy. Talk to your provider about this.

For a split-dose method, follow these instructions:

What do I do a day before the colonoscopy?

  • Have a clear liquid diet throughout the day. Clear liquid diet excludes red and purple colored substances. No solid foods, milk products, fruits, seeds & nuts.
  • Be sure to keep hydrated by drinking 8oz of clear liquid every hour.
  • If you have diabetes mellitus, you may need to take half the dose of your medication while on clear liquid diet. Please, talk to your provider about this.
  • Mix 255 g of MiraLAX® with 64oz of low-calorie Gatorade®
  • Drink 32oz of the solution at a rate of 8oz every 10 min starting at 5:00-6:00PM.

What do I do on the day of the colonoscopy?

  • Drink the remaining 32oz of solution starting 4 hours before start of your colonoscopy procedure at a rate of 8oz every 10 min.
  • Avoid further fluid intake 2hrs before your scheduled colonoscopy.
  • If you are diabetic, do not take oral diabetic medications or short-acting insulin on the day of your colonoscopy. Talk to your provider about this.
Your doctor may prefer a different over-the-counter (OTC) option for your colonoscopy prep, but it will most certainly include laxatives and an oral rehydration element. If there is confusion about what your physician recommends, ask them to specify brand names, quantities, and timelines to avoid problems and the possibility of a failed prep.

Common Bowel Preps

Below are some of the most commonly utilized bowel prep methods with general instructions on how to use them. Remember: If the instructions listed below differ from your physician’s instructions, follow the guidance of your doctor.

GoLYTELY® is a large volume liquid prep that you drink before your procedure to flush and cleanse your bowels. Follow all included dosage instructions as provided by your prescribing doctor.

What do I do the day before the colonoscopy?

  • Have a clear liquid diet throughout the day. Clear liquid diet excludes red and purple colored substances. No solid foods, milk products, fruits, seeds & nuts. Be sure to keep hydrated by drinking 8oz of clear liquid every hour. If you have diabetes mellitus, you may need to take half the dose of your medication while on clear liquid diet. Please, talk to your provider about this.
  • Mix your bowel prep agent with water as instructed in the package label.
  • Refrigerate to chill.
  • Starting at 5.00-6.00PM, Drink the bowel prep agent at a rate of 8oz every 10-15mins until 4L is completed.

What do I do on the day of the colonoscopy?

  • You may take your morning medications as usual unless directed otherwise by your doctor.
  • Avoid further fluid intake 2hrs before your scheduled colonoscopy.
  • If you are diabetic, do not take oral diabetic medications or short-acting insulin on the day of your colonoscopy. Talk to your provider about this.

You may also try a split-dose method when using GoLYTELY®:

What do I do a day before the colonoscopy?

  • Have a clear liquid diet throughout the day. Clear liquid diet excludes red and purple colored substances. No solid foods, milk products, fruits, seeds & nuts.
  • Be sure to keep hydrated by drinking 8oz of clear liquid every hour.
  • If you have diabetes mellitus, you may need to take half the dose of your medication while on clear liquid diet. Please, talk to your provider about this.
  • Mix your bowel prep agent with water as instructed in the package label.
  • Refrigerate to chill.
  • Starting at 5.00-6.00PM, Drink the 1st half of the bowel prep agent at a rate of 8oz every 10-15mins until 2L is completed.

What do I do on the day of the colonoscopy?

  • Drink the 2nd half of the bowel prep agent (2L). Start 4hrs before your scheduled colonoscopy. Drink at a rate of 8oz every 10-15mins until finished. Be sure to finish 2 hrs before your scheduled colonoscopy.
  • Be sure to keep hydrated by drinking 8oz of clear liquid every hour in addition to your prep agent. Avoid further fluid intake 2hrs before your scheduled colonoscopy.
  • If you are diabetic, do not take oral diabetic medications or short-acting insulin on the day of your colonoscopy. Talk to your provider about this.

CLENPIQ® is a ready-to-drink low volume bowel prep agent. “Low volume” means less to drink compared to other bowel preps, like GoLYTELY®. Follow all included dosage instructions as provided by your prescribing doctor.

What do I do a day before the colonoscopy?

  • Have a clear liquid diet throughout the day. Clear liquid diet excludes red and purple colored substances. No solid foods, milk products, fruits, seeds & nuts.
  • Be sure to keep hydrated by drinking 8oz of clear liquid every hour.
  • If you have diabetes mellitus, you may need to take half the dose of your medication while on clear liquid diet. Please, talk to your provider about this.
  • Take the first dose (1 bottle) of CLENPIQ® in the afternoon or early evening before the colonoscopy (e.g., 4:00 to 6:00 PM).
  • Following the CLENPIQ® dose, drink five 8-ounce cups (cup provided) of clear liquids (40 ounces total) within 5 hours and before the next dose.
  • If severe bloating, distention, or abdominal pain occurs, following the first dose, delay the second dose until the symptoms resolve.
  • Dose 2 – Approximately 6 hours later in the evening the night before the colonoscopy (e.g., 10:00 PM to 12:00 AM):Take the second dose (the second bottle) of CLENPIQ®.
  • Following the CLENPIQ® dose, drink three 8-ounce cups (cup provided) (24 ounces) of clear liquids within 5 hours and before bed.

What do I do on the day of the colonoscopy?

  • You may take your morning medications as usual unless as directed by your doctor.
  • Avoid further fluid intake 2 hrs before your scheduled colonoscopy.
  • If you are diabetic, do not take oral diabetic medications or short-acting insulin on the day of your colonoscopy. Talk to your provider about this.

For a split dose method, follow these instructions:

What do I do a day before the colonoscopy?

  • Have a clear liquid diet throughout the day. Clear liquid diet excludes red and purple colored substances. No solid foods, milk products, fruits, seeds & nuts.
  • Be sure to keep hydrated by drinking 8oz of clear liquid every hour.
  • If you have diabetes mellitus, you may need to take half the dose of your medication while on clear liquid diet. Please, talk to your provider about this.
  • Take the first dose (1 bottle) of CLENPIQ® during the evening before the colonoscopy (e.g., 5:00 to 9:00 PM).
  • Follow CLENPIQ by drinking five 8-ounce cups (cup provided) of clear liquids (40 ounces total) within 5 hours and before bed.
  • If severe bloating, distention, or abdominal pain occurs, following the first dose, delay the second dose until the symptoms resolve.

What do I do on the day of the colonoscopy?

  • Take the second dose (the second bottle) of CLENPIQ® 4-5 hours before your scheduled colonoscopy.
  • Following the CLENPIQ® dose, drink at least three 8-ounce cups (cup provided) of clear liquids (24 ounces).
  • Be sure to keep hydrated by drinking 8oz of clear liquid every hour. Avoid further fluid intake 2 hours before your scheduled colonoscopy.
  • If you are diabetic, do not take oral diabetic medications or short-acting insulin on the day of your colonoscopy. Talk to your provider about this.
SUPREP® is a low volume bowel prep agent. Follow all included dosage instructions as provided by your prescribing doctor.

What do I do a day before the colonoscopy?

  • Have a clear liquid diet throughout the day. Clear liquid diet excludes red and purple colored substances. No solid foods, milk products, fruits, seeds & nuts.
  • Be sure to keep hydrated by drinking 8oz of clear liquid every hour.
  • If you have diabetes mellitus, you may need to take half the dose of your medication while on clear liquid diet. Please, talk to your provider about this.
  • Pour the contents of one bottle of SUPREP® Bowel Prep Kit into the mixing container provided.
  • Fill the container with water to the 16 ounce fill line, and drink the entire amount around 5:00-6:00PM.
  • Drink two additional containers filled to the 16 ounce line with water over the next hour.
  • Around 10:00-11:00PM, pour the contents of the second bottle of SUPREP® Bowel Prep Kit into the mixing container provided. Fill the container with water to the 16 ounce fill line, and drink the entire amount.
  • Drink two additional containers filled to the 16 ounce line with water over the next hour.

What do I do on the day of the colonoscopy?

  • You may take your morning medications as usual unless as directed by your doctor.
  • Avoid further fluid intake 2hrs before your scheduled colonoscopy.
  • If you are diabetic, do not take oral diabetic medications or short-acting insulin on the day of your colonoscopy. Talk to your provider about this.
  • You may also use a split-dose method with SUPREP®.

What do I do a day before the colonoscopy?

  • Have a clear liquid diet throughout the day. Clear liquid diet excludes red and purple colored substances. No solid foods, milk products, fruits, seeds & nuts.
  • Be sure to keep hydrated by drinking 8oz of clear liquid every hour.
  • If you have diabetes mellitus, you may need to take half the dose of your medication while on clear liquid diet. Please, talk to your provider about this.
  • Pour the contents of one bottle of SUPREP® Bowel Prep Kit into the mixing container provided.
  • Fill the container with water to the 16 ounce fill line, and drink the entire amount around 5:00-6:00PM.
  • Drink two additional containers filled to the 16 ounce line with water over the next hour.

What do I do on the day of the colonoscopy?

  • Pour the contents of the second bottle of SUPREP® Bowel Prep Kit into the mixing container provided. Fill the container with water to the 16 ounce fill line, and drink the entire amount 4 hours before your scheduled colonoscopy.
  • Drink two additional containers filled to the 16 ounce line with water over the next hour.
  • Be sure to keep hydrated by drinking 8oz of clear liquid every hour. Avoid further fluid intake 2hrs before your scheduled colonoscopy.
  • If you are diabetic, do not take oral diabetic medications or short-acting insulin on the day of your colonoscopy. Talk to your provider about this.
Prepopik™ is a powered bowel prep agent that you mix with water on your own. Follow all included dosage instructions as provided by your prescribing doctor.

What do I do a day before the colonoscopy?

  • Have a clear liquid diet throughout the day. Clear liquid diet excludes red and purple colored substances. No solid foods, milk products, fruits, seeds & nuts.
  • Be sure to keep hydrated by drinking 8oz of clear liquid every hour.
  • If you have diabetes mellitus, you may need to take half the dose of your medication while on clear liquid diet. Please, talk to your provider about this.
  • Prepopik™ is supplied as two packets of powder.
  • The first packet is dissolved in 5oz of cold water. Drink this around 4:00-5:00PM. Then, drink five 8oz cups of clear liquid. Around 10:00-11:00PM, dissolve the second packet in 5oz of cold water and drink. Then, drink at least three 8oz cups of clear liquid.

What do I do on the day of the colonoscopy?

  • You may take your morning medications as usual unless as directed by your doctor.
  • Avoid further fluid intake 2hrs before your scheduled colonoscopy.
  • If you are diabetic, do not take oral diabetic medications or short-acting insulin on the day of your colonoscopy. Talk to your provider about this.

For split-dose method, follow these instructions:

What do I do a day before the colonoscopy?

  • Have a clear liquid diet throughout the day. Clear liquid diet excludes red and purple colored substances. No solid foods, milk products, fruits, seeds & nuts.
  • Be sure to keep hydrated by drinking 8oz of clear liquid every hour.
  • If you have diabetes mellitus, you may need to take half the dose of your medication while on clear liquid diet. Please, talk to your provider about this.
  • Prepopik™ is supplied as two packets of powder. Use the first packet a day before the colonoscopy.
  • The first packet is dissolved in 5oz of cold water. Drink this around 5:00-6:00PM. Then, drink five 8oz cups of clear liquid.

What do I do on the day of the colonoscopy?

  • The second packet is dissolved in 5oz of cold water. Drink this 4 hours before your scheduled colonoscopy. Then, drink at least three 8oz cups of clear liquid.
  • Avoid further fluid intake 2hrs before your scheduled colonoscopy.
  • If you are diabetic, do not take oral diabetic medications or short-acting insulin on the day of your colonoscopy. Talk to your provider about this.
MoviPrep® is a powered bowel prep agent you mix with water at home. Follow all included dosage instructions as provided by your prescribing doctor.

What do I do a day before the colonoscopy?

  • Have a clear liquid diet throughout the day. Clear liquid diet excludes red and purple colored substances. No solid foods, milk products, fruits, seeds & nuts.
  • Be sure to keep hydrated by drinking 8oz of clear liquid every hour.
  • If you have diabetes mellitus, you may need to take half the dose of your medication while on clear liquid diet. Please, talk to your provider about this.

Follow the following steps:

  1. Step 1: Empty the contents of 1 pouch A and 1 pouch B into the container that comes with MoviPrep®.
  2. Step 2: Add lukewarm water to the Fill line on the container.
  3. Step 3: Mix to completely dissolve the contents of pouch A and B into the lukewarm water.
  4. Step 4: Around 5:00-6:00PM, drink one 8oz (ounce) glass (240 mL) every 15 minutes. Be sure to drink all of the solution. This should take about 1 hour.
  5. Step 5: Fill the container with 16oz (two 8oz glasses) of clear liquid and drink all of this liquid.

Around 10:00-11:00PM, take the 2nd dose by doing the following:

  1. Repeat steps 1 through 4 from Dose 1
  2. Fill the container with 16oz (two 8oz glasses) of clear liquid and drink all of this liquid.

What do I do on the day of the colonoscopy?

  • You may take your morning medications as usual unless as directed by your doctor.
  • Avoid further fluid intake 2hrs before your scheduled colonoscopy.
  • If you are diabetic, do not take oral diabetic medications or short-acting insulin on the day of your colonoscopy. Talk to your provider about this.

For a split-dose method, follow these instructions:

What do I do a day before the colonoscopy?

  • Have a clear liquid diet throughout the day. Clear liquid diet excludes red and purple colored substances. No solid foods, milk products, fruits, seeds & nuts.
  • Be sure to keep hydrated by drinking 8oz of clear liquid every hour.
  • If you have diabetes mellitus, you may need to take half the dose of your medication while on clear liquid diet. Please, talk to your provider about this.

Follow the following steps:

  1. Step 1: Empty the contents of 1 pouch A and 1 pouch B into the container that comes with MoviPrep®.
  2. Step 2: Add lukewarm water to the Fill line on the container.
  3. Step 3: Mix to completely dissolve the contents of pouch A and B into the lukewarm water.
  4. Step 4: Around 5:00-6:00PM, drink one 8oz glass (240 mL) every 15 minutes. Be sure to drink all of the solution. This should take about 1 hour.
  5. Step 5: Fill the container with 16oz (two 8oz glasses) of clear liquid and drink all of this liquid before going to bed.

What do I do on the day of the colonoscopy?

Follow the following steps:

  1. Step 1: Repeat steps 1 through 4 from Dose 1 of the Split-dose (2-Day) instructions.
  2. Step 2: Fill the container with 16oz of clear liquid and drink all of this liquid 4 hours before the scheduled colonoscopy.
  3. Step 3: Drink only clear liquids up to 2 hours before the colonoscopy or as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Then stop drinking liquids until after the colonoscopy.
  • Be sure to keep hydrated by drinking 8oz of clear liquid every hour. Avoid further fluid intake 2hrs before your scheduled colonoscopy.
  • If you are diabetic, do not take oral diabetic medications or short-acting insulin on the day of your colonoscopy. Talk to your provider about this.
PLENVU® is a low-volume powdered prep agent that you mix with water at home. Follow all included dosage instructions as provided by your prescribing doctor.

What do I do a day before the colonoscopy?

  • Have a clear liquid diet throughout the day. Clear liquid diet excludes red and purple colored substances. No solid foods, milk products, fruits, seeds & nuts.
  • Be sure to keep hydrated by drinking 8oz of clear liquid every hour.
  • If you have diabetes mellitus, you may need to take half the dose of your medication while on clear liquid diet. Please, talk to your provider about this.
  • Open the carton and remove the dose 1 sachet.
  • Pour the contents of dose 1 into a measuring container that can hold 500 ml of fluid.
  • Add water to make up to 500 ml and stir until all the powder has dissolved. This may take up to approximately 8 minutes.
  • Drink the 500 ml PLENVU® dose 1 solution over 30 minutes by drinking 1 glassful every 10 to 15 minutes. This should be done in the afternoon or early evening before the colonoscopy (e.g., 4:00 to 6:00 PM).
  • Following the PLENVU® dose, drink a further 500 ml of clear fluid over a further 30 minutes.
  • If severe bloating, distention, or abdominal pain occurs, following the first dose, delay the second dose until the symptoms resolve.
  • Dose 2 – Approximately 6 hours later in the evening the night before the colonoscopy (e.g., 10:00 PM to 12:00 AM):Take the second dose of PLENVU®.
  • Pour the contents of dose 2 into a measuring container that can hold 500 ml of fluid.
  • Add water to make up to 500 ml and stir until all the powder has dissolved. This may take up to approximately 8 minutes.
  • Drink the 500 ml PLENVU® dose 2 solution over 30 minutes by drinking 1 glassful every 10 to 15 minutes.
  • Following the PLENVU® dose, drink a further 500 ml of clear fluid over a further 30 minutes.

What do I do on the day of the colonoscopy?

  • You may take your morning medications as usual unless as directed by your doctor.
  • Avoid further fluid intake 2 hrs before your scheduled colonoscopy.
  • If you are diabetic, do not take oral diabetic medications or short-acting insulin on the day of your colonoscopy. Talk to your provider about this.

For split-dose administration, follow these instructions:

What do I do a day before the colonoscopy?

  • Have a clear liquid diet throughout the day. Clear liquid diet excludes red and purple colored substances. No solid foods, milk products, fruits, seeds & nuts.
  • Be sure to keep hydrated by drinking 8oz of clear liquid every hour.
  • If you have diabetes mellitus, you may need to take half the dose of your medication while on clear liquid diet. Please, talk to your provider about this.
  • Take the first dose of PLENVU® during the evening before the colonoscopy (e.g., 5:00 to 9:00 PM).
  • Open the carton and remove the dose 1 sachet.
  • Pour the contents of dose 1 into a measuring container that can hold 500 ml of fluid.
  • Add water to make up to 500 ml and stir until all the powder has dissolved. This may take up to approximately 8 minutes.
  • Drink the 500 ml PLENVU® dose 1 solution over 30 minutes by drinking 1 glassful every 10 to 15 minutes.
  • Following the PLENVU® dose, drink a further 500 ml of clear fluid over a further 30 minutes.
  • If severe bloating, distention, or abdominal pain occurs, following the first dose, delay the second dose until the symptoms resolve.

What do I do on the day of the colonoscopy?

  • Take the second dose of PLENVU® 4-5 hours before your scheduled colonoscopy.
  • Pour the contents of dose 2 into a measuring container that can hold 500 ml of fluid.
  • Add water to make up to 500 ml and stir until all the powder has dissolved. This may take up to approximately 8 minutes.
  • Drink the 500 ml PLENVU® dose 2 solution over 30 minutes by drinking 1 glassful every 10 to 15 minutes.
  • Following the PLENVU® dose, drink a further 500 ml of clear fluid over a further 30 minutes.
  • Avoid further fluid intake 2 hours before your scheduled colonoscopy.
  • If you are diabetic, do not take oral diabetic medications or short-acting insulin on the day of your colonoscopy. Talk to your provider about this.
OsmoPrep® is a tablet prep that is taken to cleanse the bowel. Some may find this option preferable to a large-volume liquid prep solution. Follow all included dosage instructions as provided by your prescribing doctor.

What do I do a day before the colonoscopy?

  • Have a clear liquid diet throughout the day. Clear liquid diet excludes red and purple colored substances. No solid foods, milk products, fruits, seeds & nuts.
  • If you have diabetes mellitus, you may need to take half the dose of your medication while on clear liquid diet. Please, talk to your provider about this.
  • Starting around 5:00-6:00PM, take 20 tablets of OsmoPrep® with 40oz of water.
  • Be sure to keep hydrated by drinking 8oz of clear liquid every hour.
  • Starting around 10:00-11:00PM, take 12 tablets of OsmoPrep® with 24oz of water.

What do I do on the day of the colonoscopy?

  • You may take your morning medications as usual unless as directed by your doctor.
  • Avoid further fluid intake 2hrs before your scheduled colonoscopy.
  • If you are diabetic, do not take oral diabetic medications or short-acting insulin on the day of your colonoscopy. Talk to your provider about this.

For a split-dose method follow these instructions:

What do I do a day before the colonoscopy?

  • Have a clear liquid diet throughout the day. Clear liquid diet excludes red and purple colored substances. No solid foods, milk products, fruits, seeds & nuts.
  • If you have diabetes mellitus, you may need to take half the dose of your medication while on clear liquid diet. Please, talk to your provider about this.
  • Starting around 5:00-6:00PM, take 20 tablets of OsmoPrep® with 40oz of water.
  • Be sure to keep hydrated by drinking 8oz of clear liquid every hour.

What do I do on the day of the colonoscopy?

  • Take 12 tablets of OsmoPrep® with 24oz of water starting 4-5 hours before the start of your colonoscopy procedure.
  • You may have clear liquid thereafter.
  • Avoid further fluid intake 2hrs before your scheduled colonoscopy.
  • If you are diabetic, do not take oral diabetic medications or short-acting insulin on the day of your colonoscopy. Talk to your provider about this.
Instead of writing you a prescription for prep, your doctor may advise you to use an over-the-counter (OTC) alternative. OTC methods can provide satisfactory prep results, but it is important that you follow the instructions provided to you closely. Some physicians do not advise this option, as it produces an inferior prep compared to prescription bowel preps; however, it’s a cost-effective option and may be tolerated better.

Before you utilize this bowel prep method, talk to your doctor.

What do I do a day before the colonoscopy?

  • Have a clear liquid diet throughout the day. Clear liquid diet excludes red and purple colored substances. No solid foods, milk products, fruits, seeds & nuts.
  • Be sure to keep hydrated by drinking 8oz of clear liquid every hour.
  • If you have diabetes mellitus, you may need to take half the dose of your medication while on clear liquid diet. Please, talk to your provider about this.
  • Mix 255 g of MiraLAX® with 64oz of low-calorie Gatorade®
  • Drink the solution at a rate of 8oz every 10 min starting at 5:00-6:00PM.

What do I do on the day of the colonoscopy?

  • You may take your morning medications as usual unless as directed by your doctor.
  • Avoid further fluid intake 2hrs before your scheduled colonoscopy.
  • If you are diabetic, do not take oral diabetic medications or short-acting insulin on the day of your colonoscopy. Talk to your provider about this.

For a split-dose method, follow these instructions:

What do I do a day before the colonoscopy?

  • Have a clear liquid diet throughout the day. Clear liquid diet excludes red and purple colored substances. No solid foods, milk products, fruits, seeds & nuts.
  • Be sure to keep hydrated by drinking 8oz of clear liquid every hour.
  • If you have diabetes mellitus, you may need to take half the dose of your medication while on clear liquid diet. Please, talk to your provider about this.
  • Mix 255 g of MiraLAX® with 64oz of low-calorie Gatorade®
  • Drink 32oz of the solution at a rate of 8oz every 10 min starting at 5:00-6:00PM.

What do I do on the day of the colonoscopy?

  • Drink the remaining 32oz of solution starting 4 hours before start of your colonoscopy procedure at a rate of 8oz every 10 min.
  • Avoid further fluid intake 2hrs before your scheduled colonoscopy.
  • If you are diabetic, do not take oral diabetic medications or short-acting insulin on the day of your colonoscopy. Talk to your provider about this.
Your doctor may prefer a different over-the-counter (OTC) option for your colonoscopy prep, but it will most certainly include laxatives and an oral rehydration element. If there is confusion about what your physician recommends, ask them to specify brand names, quantities, and timelines to avoid problems and the possibility of a failed prep.

Common Bowel Preps

Below are some of the most commonly utilized bowel prep methods with general instructions on how to use them. Remember: If the instructions listed below differ from your physician’s instructions, follow the guidance of your doctor.

GoLYTELY® is a large volume liquid prep that you drink before your procedure to flush and cleanse your bowels. Follow all included dosage instructions as provided by your prescribing doctor.

What do I do the day before the colonoscopy?

  • Have a clear liquid diet throughout the day. Clear liquid diet excludes red and purple colored substances. No solid foods, milk products, fruits, seeds & nuts. Be sure to keep hydrated by drinking 8oz of clear liquid every hour. If you have diabetes mellitus, you may need to take half the dose of your medication while on clear liquid diet. Please, talk to your provider about this.
  • Mix your bowel prep agent with water as instructed in the package label.
  • Refrigerate to chill.
  • Starting at 5.00-6.00PM, Drink the bowel prep agent at a rate of 8oz every 10-15mins until 4L is completed.

What do I do on the day of the colonoscopy?

  • You may take your morning medications as usual unless directed otherwise by your doctor.
  • Avoid further fluid intake 2hrs before your scheduled colonoscopy.
  • If you are diabetic, do not take oral diabetic medications or short-acting insulin on the day of your colonoscopy. Talk to your provider about this.

You may also try a split-dose method when using GoLYTELY®:

What do I do a day before the colonoscopy?

  • Have a clear liquid diet throughout the day. Clear liquid diet excludes red and purple colored substances. No solid foods, milk products, fruits, seeds & nuts.
  • Be sure to keep hydrated by drinking 8oz of clear liquid every hour.
  • If you have diabetes mellitus, you may need to take half the dose of your medication while on clear liquid diet. Please, talk to your provider about this.
  • Mix your bowel prep agent with water as instructed in the package label.
  • Refrigerate to chill.
  • Starting at 5.00-6.00PM, Drink the 1st half of the bowel prep agent at a rate of 8oz every 10-15mins until 2L is completed.

What do I do on the day of the colonoscopy?

  • Drink the 2nd half of the bowel prep agent (2L). Start 4hrs before your scheduled colonoscopy. Drink at a rate of 8oz every 10-15mins until finished. Be sure to finish 2 hrs before your scheduled colonoscopy.
  • Be sure to keep hydrated by drinking 8oz of clear liquid every hour in addition to your prep agent. Avoid further fluid intake 2hrs before your scheduled colonoscopy.
  • If you are diabetic, do not take oral diabetic medications or short-acting insulin on the day of your colonoscopy. Talk to your provider about this.

CLENPIQ® is a ready-to-drink low volume bowel prep agent. “Low volume” means less to drink compared to other bowel preps, like GoLYTELY®. Follow all included dosage instructions as provided by your prescribing doctor.

What do I do a day before the colonoscopy?

  • Have a clear liquid diet throughout the day. Clear liquid diet excludes red and purple colored substances. No solid foods, milk products, fruits, seeds & nuts.
  • Be sure to keep hydrated by drinking 8oz of clear liquid every hour.
  • If you have diabetes mellitus, you may need to take half the dose of your medication while on clear liquid diet. Please, talk to your provider about this.
  • Take the first dose (1 bottle) of CLENPIQ® in the afternoon or early evening before the colonoscopy (e.g., 4:00 to 6:00 PM).
  • Following the CLENPIQ® dose, drink five 8-ounce cups (cup provided) of clear liquids (40 ounces total) within 5 hours and before the next dose.
  • If severe bloating, distention, or abdominal pain occurs, following the first dose, delay the second dose until the symptoms resolve.
  • Dose 2 – Approximately 6 hours later in the evening the night before the colonoscopy (e.g., 10:00 PM to 12:00 AM):Take the second dose (the second bottle) of CLENPIQ®.
  • Following the CLENPIQ® dose, drink three 8-ounce cups (cup provided) (24 ounces) of clear liquids within 5 hours and before bed.

What do I do on the day of the colonoscopy?

  • You may take your morning medications as usual unless as directed by your doctor.
  • Avoid further fluid intake 2 hrs before your scheduled colonoscopy.
  • If you are diabetic, do not take oral diabetic medications or short-acting insulin on the day of your colonoscopy. Talk to your provider about this.

For a split dose method, follow these instructions:

What do I do a day before the colonoscopy?

  • Have a clear liquid diet throughout the day. Clear liquid diet excludes red and purple colored substances. No solid foods, milk products, fruits, seeds & nuts.
  • Be sure to keep hydrated by drinking 8oz of clear liquid every hour.
  • If you have diabetes mellitus, you may need to take half the dose of your medication while on clear liquid diet. Please, talk to your provider about this.
  • Take the first dose (1 bottle) of CLENPIQ® during the evening before the colonoscopy (e.g., 5:00 to 9:00 PM).
  • Follow CLENPIQ by drinking five 8-ounce cups (cup provided) of clear liquids (40 ounces total) within 5 hours and before bed.
  • If severe bloating, distention, or abdominal pain occurs, following the first dose, delay the second dose until the symptoms resolve.

What do I do on the day of the colonoscopy?

  • Take the second dose (the second bottle) of CLENPIQ® 4-5 hours before your scheduled colonoscopy.
  • Following the CLENPIQ® dose, drink at least three 8-ounce cups (cup provided) of clear liquids (24 ounces).
  • Be sure to keep hydrated by drinking 8oz of clear liquid every hour. Avoid further fluid intake 2 hours before your scheduled colonoscopy.
  • If you are diabetic, do not take oral diabetic medications or short-acting insulin on the day of your colonoscopy. Talk to your provider about this.
SUPREP® is a low volume bowel prep agent. Follow all included dosage instructions as provided by your prescribing doctor.

What do I do a day before the colonoscopy?

  • Have a clear liquid diet throughout the day. Clear liquid diet excludes red and purple colored substances. No solid foods, milk products, fruits, seeds & nuts.
  • Be sure to keep hydrated by drinking 8oz of clear liquid every hour.
  • If you have diabetes mellitus, you may need to take half the dose of your medication while on clear liquid diet. Please, talk to your provider about this.
  • Pour the contents of one bottle of SUPREP® Bowel Prep Kit into the mixing container provided.
  • Fill the container with water to the 16 ounce fill line, and drink the entire amount around 5:00-6:00PM.
  • Drink two additional containers filled to the 16 ounce line with water over the next hour.
  • Around 10:00-11:00PM, pour the contents of the second bottle of SUPREP® Bowel Prep Kit into the mixing container provided. Fill the container with water to the 16 ounce fill line, and drink the entire amount.
  • Drink two additional containers filled to the 16 ounce line with water over the next hour.

What do I do on the day of the colonoscopy?

  • You may take your morning medications as usual unless as directed by your doctor.
  • Avoid further fluid intake 2hrs before your scheduled colonoscopy.
  • If you are diabetic, do not take oral diabetic medications or short-acting insulin on the day of your colonoscopy. Talk to your provider about this.
  • You may also use a split-dose method with SUPREP®.

What do I do a day before the colonoscopy?

  • Have a clear liquid diet throughout the day. Clear liquid diet excludes red and purple colored substances. No solid foods, milk products, fruits, seeds & nuts.
  • Be sure to keep hydrated by drinking 8oz of clear liquid every hour.
  • If you have diabetes mellitus, you may need to take half the dose of your medication while on clear liquid diet. Please, talk to your provider about this.
  • Pour the contents of one bottle of SUPREP® Bowel Prep Kit into the mixing container provided.
  • Fill the container with water to the 16 ounce fill line, and drink the entire amount around 5:00-6:00PM.
  • Drink two additional containers filled to the 16 ounce line with water over the next hour.

What do I do on the day of the colonoscopy?

  • Pour the contents of the second bottle of SUPREP® Bowel Prep Kit into the mixing container provided. Fill the container with water to the 16 ounce fill line, and drink the entire amount 4 hours before your scheduled colonoscopy.
  • Drink two additional containers filled to the 16 ounce line with water over the next hour.
  • Be sure to keep hydrated by drinking 8oz of clear liquid every hour. Avoid further fluid intake 2hrs before your scheduled colonoscopy.
  • If you are diabetic, do not take oral diabetic medications or short-acting insulin on the day of your colonoscopy. Talk to your provider about this.
Prepopik™ is a powered bowel prep agent that you mix with water on your own. Follow all included dosage instructions as provided by your prescribing doctor.

What do I do a day before the colonoscopy?

  • Have a clear liquid diet throughout the day. Clear liquid diet excludes red and purple colored substances. No solid foods, milk products, fruits, seeds & nuts.
  • Be sure to keep hydrated by drinking 8oz of clear liquid every hour.
  • If you have diabetes mellitus, you may need to take half the dose of your medication while on clear liquid diet. Please, talk to your provider about this.
  • Prepopik™ is supplied as two packets of powder.
  • The first packet is dissolved in 5oz of cold water. Drink this around 4:00-5:00PM. Then, drink five 8oz cups of clear liquid. Around 10:00-11:00PM, dissolve the second packet in 5oz of cold water and drink. Then, drink at least three 8oz cups of clear liquid.

What do I do on the day of the colonoscopy?

  • You may take your morning medications as usual unless as directed by your doctor.
  • Avoid further fluid intake 2hrs before your scheduled colonoscopy.
  • If you are diabetic, do not take oral diabetic medications or short-acting insulin on the day of your colonoscopy. Talk to your provider about this.

For split-dose method, follow these instructions:

What do I do a day before the colonoscopy?

  • Have a clear liquid diet throughout the day. Clear liquid diet excludes red and purple colored substances. No solid foods, milk products, fruits, seeds & nuts.
  • Be sure to keep hydrated by drinking 8oz of clear liquid every hour.
  • If you have diabetes mellitus, you may need to take half the dose of your medication while on clear liquid diet. Please, talk to your provider about this.
  • Prepopik™ is supplied as two packets of powder. Use the first packet a day before the colonoscopy.
  • The first packet is dissolved in 5oz of cold water. Drink this around 5:00-6:00PM. Then, drink five 8oz cups of clear liquid.

What do I do on the day of the colonoscopy?

  • The second packet is dissolved in 5oz of cold water. Drink this 4 hours before your scheduled colonoscopy. Then, drink at least three 8oz cups of clear liquid.
  • Avoid further fluid intake 2hrs before your scheduled colonoscopy.
  • If you are diabetic, do not take oral diabetic medications or short-acting insulin on the day of your colonoscopy. Talk to your provider about this.
MoviPrep® is a powered bowel prep agent you mix with water at home. Follow all included dosage instructions as provided by your prescribing doctor.

What do I do a day before the colonoscopy?

  • Have a clear liquid diet throughout the day. Clear liquid diet excludes red and purple colored substances. No solid foods, milk products, fruits, seeds & nuts.
  • Be sure to keep hydrated by drinking 8oz of clear liquid every hour.
  • If you have diabetes mellitus, you may need to take half the dose of your medication while on clear liquid diet. Please, talk to your provider about this.

Follow the following steps:

  1. Step 1: Empty the contents of 1 pouch A and 1 pouch B into the container that comes with MoviPrep®.
  2. Step 2: Add lukewarm water to the Fill line on the container.
  3. Step 3: Mix to completely dissolve the contents of pouch A and B into the lukewarm water.
  4. Step 4: Around 5:00-6:00PM, drink one 8oz (ounce) glass (240 mL) every 15 minutes. Be sure to drink all of the solution. This should take about 1 hour.
  5. Step 5: Fill the container with 16oz (two 8oz glasses) of clear liquid and drink all of this liquid.

Around 10:00-11:00PM, take the 2nd dose by doing the following:

  1. Repeat steps 1 through 4 from Dose 1
  2. Fill the container with 16oz (two 8oz glasses) of clear liquid and drink all of this liquid.

What do I do on the day of the colonoscopy?

  • You may take your morning medications as usual unless as directed by your doctor.
  • Avoid further fluid intake 2hrs before your scheduled colonoscopy.
  • If you are diabetic, do not take oral diabetic medications or short-acting insulin on the day of your colonoscopy. Talk to your provider about this.

For a split-dose method, follow these instructions:

What do I do a day before the colonoscopy?

  • Have a clear liquid diet throughout the day. Clear liquid diet excludes red and purple colored substances. No solid foods, milk products, fruits, seeds & nuts.
  • Be sure to keep hydrated by drinking 8oz of clear liquid every hour.
  • If you have diabetes mellitus, you may need to take half the dose of your medication while on clear liquid diet. Please, talk to your provider about this.

Follow the following steps:

  1. Step 1: Empty the contents of 1 pouch A and 1 pouch B into the container that comes with MoviPrep®.
  2. Step 2: Add lukewarm water to the Fill line on the container.
  3. Step 3: Mix to completely dissolve the contents of pouch A and B into the lukewarm water.
  4. Step 4: Around 5:00-6:00PM, drink one 8oz glass (240 mL) every 15 minutes. Be sure to drink all of the solution. This should take about 1 hour.
  5. Step 5: Fill the container with 16oz (two 8oz glasses) of clear liquid and drink all of this liquid before going to bed.

What do I do on the day of the colonoscopy?

Follow the following steps:

  1. Step 1: Repeat steps 1 through 4 from Dose 1 of the Split-dose (2-Day) instructions.
  2. Step 2: Fill the container with 16oz of clear liquid and drink all of this liquid 4 hours before the scheduled colonoscopy.
  3. Step 3: Drink only clear liquids up to 2 hours before the colonoscopy or as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Then stop drinking liquids until after the colonoscopy.
  • Be sure to keep hydrated by drinking 8oz of clear liquid every hour. Avoid further fluid intake 2hrs before your scheduled colonoscopy.
  • If you are diabetic, do not take oral diabetic medications or short-acting insulin on the day of your colonoscopy. Talk to your provider about this.
PLENVU® is a low-volume powdered prep agent that you mix with water at home. Follow all included dosage instructions as provided by your prescribing doctor.

What do I do a day before the colonoscopy?

  • Have a clear liquid diet throughout the day. Clear liquid diet excludes red and purple colored substances. No solid foods, milk products, fruits, seeds & nuts.
  • Be sure to keep hydrated by drinking 8oz of clear liquid every hour.
  • If you have diabetes mellitus, you may need to take half the dose of your medication while on clear liquid diet. Please, talk to your provider about this.
  • Open the carton and remove the dose 1 sachet.
  • Pour the contents of dose 1 into a measuring container that can hold 500 ml of fluid.
  • Add water to make up to 500 ml and stir until all the powder has dissolved. This may take up to approximately 8 minutes.
  • Drink the 500 ml PLENVU® dose 1 solution over 30 minutes by drinking 1 glassful every 10 to 15 minutes. This should be done in the afternoon or early evening before the colonoscopy (e.g., 4:00 to 6:00 PM).
  • Following the PLENVU® dose, drink a further 500 ml of clear fluid over a further 30 minutes.
  • If severe bloating, distention, or abdominal pain occurs, following the first dose, delay the second dose until the symptoms resolve.
  • Dose 2 – Approximately 6 hours later in the evening the night before the colonoscopy (e.g., 10:00 PM to 12:00 AM):Take the second dose of PLENVU®.
  • Pour the contents of dose 2 into a measuring container that can hold 500 ml of fluid.
  • Add water to make up to 500 ml and stir until all the powder has dissolved. This may take up to approximately 8 minutes.
  • Drink the 500 ml PLENVU® dose 2 solution over 30 minutes by drinking 1 glassful every 10 to 15 minutes.
  • Following the PLENVU® dose, drink a further 500 ml of clear fluid over a further 30 minutes.

What do I do on the day of the colonoscopy?

  • You may take your morning medications as usual unless as directed by your doctor.
  • Avoid further fluid intake 2 hrs before your scheduled colonoscopy.
  • If you are diabetic, do not take oral diabetic medications or short-acting insulin on the day of your colonoscopy. Talk to your provider about this.

For split-dose administration, follow these instructions:

What do I do a day before the colonoscopy?

  • Have a clear liquid diet throughout the day. Clear liquid diet excludes red and purple colored substances. No solid foods, milk products, fruits, seeds & nuts.
  • Be sure to keep hydrated by drinking 8oz of clear liquid every hour.
  • If you have diabetes mellitus, you may need to take half the dose of your medication while on clear liquid diet. Please, talk to your provider about this.
  • Take the first dose of PLENVU® during the evening before the colonoscopy (e.g., 5:00 to 9:00 PM).
  • Open the carton and remove the dose 1 sachet.
  • Pour the contents of dose 1 into a measuring container that can hold 500 ml of fluid.
  • Add water to make up to 500 ml and stir until all the powder has dissolved. This may take up to approximately 8 minutes.
  • Drink the 500 ml PLENVU® dose 1 solution over 30 minutes by drinking 1 glassful every 10 to 15 minutes.
  • Following the PLENVU® dose, drink a further 500 ml of clear fluid over a further 30 minutes.
  • If severe bloating, distention, or abdominal pain occurs, following the first dose, delay the second dose until the symptoms resolve.

What do I do on the day of the colonoscopy?

  • Take the second dose of PLENVU® 4-5 hours before your scheduled colonoscopy.
  • Pour the contents of dose 2 into a measuring container that can hold 500 ml of fluid.
  • Add water to make up to 500 ml and stir until all the powder has dissolved. This may take up to approximately 8 minutes.
  • Drink the 500 ml PLENVU® dose 2 solution over 30 minutes by drinking 1 glassful every 10 to 15 minutes.
  • Following the PLENVU® dose, drink a further 500 ml of clear fluid over a further 30 minutes.
  • Avoid further fluid intake 2 hours before your scheduled colonoscopy.
  • If you are diabetic, do not take oral diabetic medications or short-acting insulin on the day of your colonoscopy. Talk to your provider about this.
OsmoPrep® is a tablet prep that is taken to cleanse the bowel. Some may find this option preferable to a large-volume liquid prep solution. Follow all included dosage instructions as provided by your prescribing doctor.

What do I do a day before the colonoscopy?

  • Have a clear liquid diet throughout the day. Clear liquid diet excludes red and purple colored substances. No solid foods, milk products, fruits, seeds & nuts.
  • If you have diabetes mellitus, you may need to take half the dose of your medication while on clear liquid diet. Please, talk to your provider about this.
  • Starting around 5:00-6:00PM, take 20 tablets of OsmoPrep® with 40oz of water.
  • Be sure to keep hydrated by drinking 8oz of clear liquid every hour.
  • Starting around 10:00-11:00PM, take 12 tablets of OsmoPrep® with 24oz of water.

What do I do on the day of the colonoscopy?

  • You may take your morning medications as usual unless as directed by your doctor.
  • Avoid further fluid intake 2hrs before your scheduled colonoscopy.
  • If you are diabetic, do not take oral diabetic medications or short-acting insulin on the day of your colonoscopy. Talk to your provider about this.

For a split-dose method follow these instructions:

What do I do a day before the colonoscopy?

  • Have a clear liquid diet throughout the day. Clear liquid diet excludes red and purple colored substances. No solid foods, milk products, fruits, seeds & nuts.
  • If you have diabetes mellitus, you may need to take half the dose of your medication while on clear liquid diet. Please, talk to your provider about this.
  • Starting around 5:00-6:00PM, take 20 tablets of OsmoPrep® with 40oz of water.
  • Be sure to keep hydrated by drinking 8oz of clear liquid every hour.

What do I do on the day of the colonoscopy?

  • Take 12 tablets of OsmoPrep® with 24oz of water starting 4-5 hours before the start of your colonoscopy procedure.
  • You may have clear liquid thereafter.
  • Avoid further fluid intake 2hrs before your scheduled colonoscopy.
  • If you are diabetic, do not take oral diabetic medications or short-acting insulin on the day of your colonoscopy. Talk to your provider about this.
Instead of writing you a prescription for prep, your doctor may advise you to use an over-the-counter (OTC) alternative. OTC methods can provide satisfactory prep results, but it is important that you follow the instructions provided to you closely. Some physicians do not advise this option, as it produces an inferior prep compared to prescription bowel preps; however, it’s a cost-effective option and may be tolerated better.

Before you utilize this bowel prep method, talk to your doctor.

What do I do a day before the colonoscopy?

  • Have a clear liquid diet throughout the day. Clear liquid diet excludes red and purple colored substances. No solid foods, milk products, fruits, seeds & nuts.
  • Be sure to keep hydrated by drinking 8oz of clear liquid every hour.
  • If you have diabetes mellitus, you may need to take half the dose of your medication while on clear liquid diet. Please, talk to your provider about this.
  • Mix 255 g of MiraLAX® with 64oz of low-calorie Gatorade®
  • Drink the solution at a rate of 8oz every 10 min starting at 5:00-6:00PM.

What do I do on the day of the colonoscopy?

  • You may take your morning medications as usual unless as directed by your doctor.
  • Avoid further fluid intake 2hrs before your scheduled colonoscopy.
  • If you are diabetic, do not take oral diabetic medications or short-acting insulin on the day of your colonoscopy. Talk to your provider about this.

For a split-dose method, follow these instructions:

What do I do a day before the colonoscopy?

  • Have a clear liquid diet throughout the day. Clear liquid diet excludes red and purple colored substances. No solid foods, milk products, fruits, seeds & nuts.
  • Be sure to keep hydrated by drinking 8oz of clear liquid every hour.
  • If you have diabetes mellitus, you may need to take half the dose of your medication while on clear liquid diet. Please, talk to your provider about this.
  • Mix 255 g of MiraLAX® with 64oz of low-calorie Gatorade®
  • Drink 32oz of the solution at a rate of 8oz every 10 min starting at 5:00-6:00PM.

What do I do on the day of the colonoscopy?

  • Drink the remaining 32oz of solution starting 4 hours before start of your colonoscopy procedure at a rate of 8oz every 10 min.
  • Avoid further fluid intake 2hrs before your scheduled colonoscopy.
  • If you are diabetic, do not take oral diabetic medications or short-acting insulin on the day of your colonoscopy. Talk to your provider about this.
Your doctor may prefer a different over-the-counter (OTC) option for your colonoscopy prep, but it will most certainly include laxatives and an oral rehydration element. If there is confusion about what your physician recommends, ask them to specify brand names, quantities, and timelines to avoid problems and the possibility of a failed prep.

General Prep Tips

The instructions given above are great for learning more about how to use your chosen prep option, but what about tips and tricks for managing the discomfort and monotony associated with the prep process? What to the patients have to say?!

We’ve got the info you’re looking for – check out our Expert Tips for Colonoscopy Prep before you start the process, you’ll be glad you did!

General Prep Tips

The instructions given above are great for learning more about how to use your chosen prep option, but what about tips and tricks for managing the discomfort and monotony associated with the prep process? What to the patients have to say?!

We’ve got the info you’re looking for – check out our Expert Tips for Colonoscopy Prep before you start the process, you’ll be glad you did!

General Prep Tips

The instructions given above are great for learning more about how to use your chosen prep option, but what about tips and tricks for managing the discomfort and monotony associated with the prep process? What to the patients have to say?!

We’ve got the info you’re looking for – check out our Expert Tips for Colonoscopy Prep before you start the process, you’ll be glad you did!

Are you on a GLP-1?

Many patients are currently on a GLP-1 for type 2 diabetes management and/or weight loss. These drugs may slow down your digestion, and could impact your colonoscopy prep.

If you have scheduled a colonoscopy, make sure to notify your doctor if you’re on a GLP-1 so you can discuss altering the prep instructions so you get an adequate prep.

Are you on a GLP-1?

Many patients are currently on a GLP-1 for type 2 diabetes management and/or weight loss. These drugs may slow down your digestion, and could impact your colonoscopy prep.

If you have scheduled a colonoscopy, make sure to notify your doctor if you’re on a GLP-1 so you can discuss altering the prep instructions so you get an adequate prep.

Are you on a GLP-1?

Many patients are currently on a GLP-1 for type 2 diabetes management and/or weight loss. These drugs may slow down your digestion, and could impact your colonoscopy prep.

If you have scheduled a colonoscopy, make sure to notify your doctor if you’re on a GLP-1 so you can discuss altering the prep instructions so you get an adequate prep.

Prep Diets

As part of the prep process, you’ll be required to adhere to a specific diet to minimize residue in your colon. Your physician will tell you exactly what you need to do, but generally, you’ll be asked to maintain a low fiber/low residue diet in the days leading up to your colonoscopy, and a clear liquid diet the day before and day of the actual procedure.

Maintaining this diet is critical to the success of your colonoscopy prep. If you are unable to sufficiently cleanse and flush your colon, you’ll likely be required to reschedule your procedure and repeat the entire prep process, adding time and inconvenience to an already somewhat inconvenient process.

Clear Liquid Diet

Many prep methods require you to maintain a clear liquid diet the day before (and day of) your colonoscopy. This helps the prep work more effectively and ensures that your colon is clean and ready for the procedure.

A clear liquid diet excludes red and purple colored substances, and excludes alcohol. Examples of clear liquid diet include water, tea, plain coffee, lemonade from powdered mix, carbonated beverages and soda, clear juices such as apple and white grape, plain or flavored gelatin, sports drinks such as Gatorade® , All-Sports®, Powerade®; sorbet, popsicles, honey, sugar, hard candy, fat-free broth, bouillon or consommé.

Low Fiber/Low Residue Diet

Your doctor may also recommend that you follow a low fiber/low residue diet for several days leading up to your colonoscopy, with a clear liquid diet the day before.

Or, new 2025 guidance has suggested that eating a low-residue diet the day before a colonoscopy may be permissible. Read more in our blog: What Can I Eat the Day Before a Colonoscopy?

Low residue refers to undigested food or fibers that make up part of the stool. A low residue diet reduces the frequency and volume of stool while prolonging the time it takes food to travel the intestine.

You should avoid the following food items: whole wheat breads, cereals, crackers and rolls; whole wheat pasta, brown or wild rice; any item with nuts, seeds and fruits; buckwheat, granola, cornbread, pumpernickel bread; tough meat and meat items with skin; raw fruits, prunes and prune juice, berries, raisins and dried fruits; raw or partially cooked vegetables. You should also avoid milk and milk products.

If you are on a low residue diet, you may be allowed to have white bread, rolls and biscuits; white rice or noodles; plain crackers, potato rolls, skinless cooked potato; skinless chicken, skinless turkey, fish and other sea food; canned fruits without seeds or skin; eggs; vanilla wafers.

Prep Diets

As part of the prep process, you’ll be required to adhere to a specific diet to minimize residue in your colon. Your physician will tell you exactly what you need to do, but generally, you’ll be asked to maintain a low fiber/low residue diet in the days leading up to your colonoscopy, and a clear liquid diet the day before and day of the actual procedure.

Maintaining this diet is critical to the success of your colonoscopy prep. If you are unable to sufficiently cleanse and flush your colon, you’ll likely be required to reschedule your procedure and repeat the entire prep process, adding time and inconvenience to an already somewhat inconvenient process.

Clear Liquid Diet

Many prep methods require you to maintain a clear liquid diet the day before (and day of) your colonoscopy. This helps the prep work more effectively and ensures that your colon is clean and ready for the procedure.

A clear liquid diet excludes red and purple colored substances, and excludes alcohol. Examples of clear liquid diet include water, tea, plain coffee, lemonade from powdered mix, carbonated beverages and soda, clear juices such as apple and white grape, plain or flavored gelatin, sports drinks such as Gatorade® , All-Sports®, Powerade®; sorbet, popsicles, honey, sugar, hard candy, fat-free broth, bouillon or consommé.

Low Fiber/Low Residue Diet

Your doctor may also recommend that you follow a low fiber/low residue diet for several days leading up to your colonoscopy, with a clear liquid diet the day before.

Or, new 2025 guidance has suggested that eating a low-residue diet the day before a colonoscopy may be permissible. Read more in our blog: What Can I Eat the Day Before a Colonoscopy?

Low residue refers to undigested food or fibers that make up part of the stool. A low residue diet reduces the frequency and volume of stool while prolonging the time it takes food to travel the intestine.

You should avoid the following food items: whole wheat breads, cereals, crackers and rolls; whole wheat pasta, brown or wild rice; any item with nuts, seeds and fruits; buckwheat, granola, cornbread, pumpernickel bread; tough meat and meat items with skin; raw fruits, prunes and prune juice, berries, raisins and dried fruits; raw or partially cooked vegetables. You should also avoid milk and milk products.

If you are on a low residue diet, you may be allowed to have white bread, rolls and biscuits; white rice or noodles; plain crackers, potato rolls, skinless cooked potato; skinless chicken, skinless turkey, fish and other sea food; canned fruits without seeds or skin; eggs; vanilla wafers.

Prep Diets

As part of the prep process, you’ll be required to adhere to a specific diet to minimize residue in your colon. Your physician will tell you exactly what you need to do, but generally, you’ll be asked to maintain a low fiber/low residue diet in the days leading up to your colonoscopy, and a clear liquid diet the day before and day of the actual procedure.

Maintaining this diet is critical to the success of your colonoscopy prep. If you are unable to sufficiently cleanse and flush your colon, you’ll likely be required to reschedule your procedure and repeat the entire prep process, adding time and inconvenience to an already somewhat inconvenient process.

Clear Liquid Diet

Many prep methods require you to maintain a clear liquid diet the day before (and day of) your colonoscopy. This helps the prep work more effectively and ensures that your colon is clean and ready for the procedure.

A clear liquid diet excludes red and purple colored substances, and excludes alcohol. Examples of clear liquid diet include water, tea, plain coffee, lemonade from powdered mix, carbonated beverages and soda, clear juices such as apple and white grape, plain or flavored gelatin, sports drinks such as Gatorade® , All-Sports®, Powerade®; sorbet, popsicles, honey, sugar, hard candy, fat-free broth, bouillon or consommé.

Low Fiber/Low Residue Diet

Your doctor may also recommend that you follow a low fiber/low residue diet for several days leading up to your colonoscopy, with a clear liquid diet the day before.

Or, new 2025 guidance has suggested that eating a low-residue diet the day before a colonoscopy may be permissible. Read more in our blog: What Can I Eat the Day Before a Colonoscopy?

Low residue refers to undigested food or fibers that make up part of the stool. A low residue diet reduces the frequency and volume of stool while prolonging the time it takes food to travel the intestine.

You should avoid the following food items: whole wheat breads, cereals, crackers and rolls; whole wheat pasta, brown or wild rice; any item with nuts, seeds and fruits; buckwheat, granola, cornbread, pumpernickel bread; tough meat and meat items with skin; raw fruits, prunes and prune juice, berries, raisins and dried fruits; raw or partially cooked vegetables. You should also avoid milk and milk products.

If you are on a low residue diet, you may be allowed to have white bread, rolls and biscuits; white rice or noodles; plain crackers, potato rolls, skinless cooked potato; skinless chicken, skinless turkey, fish and other sea food; canned fruits without seeds or skin; eggs; vanilla wafers.

Foods that are okay Foods that are not okay
White bread Whole wheat bread or pasta
White rice or noodles Brown or wild rice
Plain crackers and potato rolls Whole wheat crackers and rolls
Skinless cooked potato Raw or partially cooked vegetables
Skinless chicken or turkey Tough meat or meat items with skin
Fish and other sea foods Nuts, seeds, popcorn, and fruits
Canned fruits without seeds or skin Milk or milk products
Eggs Cereals
Vanilla wafers, Animal crackers Granola, Cornbread, Pumpernickel bread
Items on the clear liquid diet Items on the high fiber diet

Your colonoscopy prep diet is very important, as it’s part of what make a colonoscopy lifesaving. While you may be able to avoid an entirely clear liquid diet in the days leading up to your procedure, it’s important to work closely with your doctor and eat mindfully and cautiously. When in doubt, stick to clear liquids so your colon will be as clean as possible.

Be sure to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully regarding your diet to avoid the need for a repeat prep and colonoscopy.

Foods that are okay Foods that are not okay
White bread Whole wheat bread or pasta
White rice or noodles Brown or wild rice
Plain crackers and potato rolls Whole wheat crackers and rolls
Skinless cooked potato Raw or partially cooked vegetables
Skinless chicken or turkey Tough meat or meat items with skin
Fish and other sea foods Nuts, seeds, popcorn, and fruits
Canned fruits without seeds or skin Milk or milk products
Eggs Cereals
Vanilla wafers, Animal crackers Granola, Cornbread, Pumpernickel bread
Items on the clear liquid diet Items on the high fiber diet

Your colonoscopy prep diet is very important, as it’s part of what make a colonoscopy lifesaving. While you may be able to avoid an entirely clear liquid diet in the days leading up to your procedure, it’s important to work closely with your doctor and eat mindfully and cautiously. When in doubt, stick to clear liquids so your colon will be as clean as possible.

Be sure to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully regarding your diet to avoid the need for a repeat prep and colonoscopy.

Foods that are okay Foods that are not okay
White bread Whole wheat bread or pasta
White rice or noodles Brown or wild rice
Plain crackers and potato rolls Whole wheat crackers and rolls
Skinless cooked potato Raw or partially cooked vegetables
Skinless chicken or turkey Tough meat or meat items with skin
Fish and other sea foods Nuts, seeds, popcorn, and fruits
Canned fruits without seeds or skin Milk or milk products
Eggs Cereals
Vanilla wafers, Animal crackers Granola, Cornbread, Pumpernickel bread
Items on the clear liquid diet Items on the high fiber diet

Your colonoscopy prep diet is very important, as it’s part of what make a colonoscopy lifesaving. While you may be able to avoid an entirely clear liquid diet in the days leading up to your procedure, it’s important to work closely with your doctor and eat mindfully and cautiously. When in doubt, stick to clear liquids so your colon will be as clean as possible.

Be sure to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully regarding your diet to avoid the need for a repeat prep and colonoscopy.

How do I know if my prep worked?

Great question! You’ve likely been spending a lot of time on the toilet during your prep process, so it’s natural to wonder if you’ve done everything correctly. Your last stool after finishing your prep agent can act as a guide.

Your stool should be clear, yellow, light, and fully liquid. The presence of dark particles or thick brown stool means that you are not yet ready for your colonoscopy.

If you are still having solid or dark stools on the morning of your scheduled procedure, reach out to your doctor’s office for advice on how to proceed.

Look for these three signs to know you’re ready for your colonoscopy:

  • Your stool is clear yellow liquid without dark particles
  • Your stool comes out like an open tap
  • You feel like having a bowel movement, but nothing comes out

How do I know if my prep worked?

Great question! You’ve likely been spending a lot of time on the toilet during your prep process, so it’s natural to wonder if you’ve done everything correctly. Your last stool after finishing your prep agent can act as a guide.

Your stool should be clear, yellow, light, and fully liquid. The presence of dark particles or thick brown stool means that you are not yet ready for your colonoscopy.

If you are still having solid or dark stools on the morning of your scheduled procedure, reach out to your doctor’s office for advice on how to proceed.

Look for these three signs to know you’re ready for your colonoscopy:

  • Your stool is clear yellow liquid without dark particles
  • Your stool comes out like an open tap
  • You feel like having a bowel movement, but nothing comes out

How do I know if my prep worked?

Great question! You’ve likely been spending a lot of time on the toilet during your prep process, so it’s natural to wonder if you’ve done everything correctly. Your last stool after finishing your prep agent can act as a guide.

Your stool should be clear, yellow, light, and fully liquid. The presence of dark particles or thick brown stool means that you are not yet ready for your colonoscopy.

If you are still having solid or dark stools on the morning of your scheduled procedure, reach out to your doctor’s office for advice on how to proceed.

Look for these three signs to know you’re ready for your colonoscopy:

  • Your stool is clear yellow liquid without dark particles
  • Your stool comes out like an open tap
  • You feel like having a bowel movement, but nothing comes out

Assess your risk with our Prueba de detección.  Get personalized insights in just 13 quick questions!

Assess your risk with our Prueba de detección.  Get personalized insights in just 13 quick questions!

Assess your risk with our Prueba de detección.  Get personalized insights in just 13 quick questions!

What happens after my colonoscopy?

After a colonoscopy, some patients are in “the clear” and do not need to return for another colonoscopy for 10 years. If a polyp or abnormality was found, or if you are not average-risk for colorectal cancer, you will need to repeat a colonoscopy sooner.

Talk to your doctor about the best screening interval for you. And whatever you do, go have a great meal. You earned it!

What happens after my colonoscopy?

After a colonoscopy, some patients are in “the clear” and do not need to return for another colonoscopy for 10 years. If a polyp or abnormality was found, or if you are not average-risk for colorectal cancer, you will need to repeat a colonoscopy sooner.

Talk to your doctor about the best screening interval for you. And whatever you do, go have a great meal. You earned it!

What happens after my colonoscopy?

After a colonoscopy, some patients are in “the clear” and do not need to return for another colonoscopy for 10 years. If a polyp or abnormality was found, or if you are not average-risk for colorectal cancer, you will need to repeat a colonoscopy sooner.

Talk to your doctor about the best screening interval for you. And whatever you do, go have a great meal. You earned it!