Alternatives to Magnesium Citrate for Colonoscopy Prep

Colonoscopy Preparation Without Magnesium Citrate

At Digestive Healthcare Center, we continuously update our patients on the latest news regarding preparation for colonoscopy. Under the Vi-Jon LLC Magnesium Citrate Saline Oral Solution recall, over 50 laxatives sold under various brand names at major pharmacies have been recalled. The recall affects products distributed in the United States, Canada, and Panama. The recalled products were found to be contaminated with the bacterium Gluconacetobacter liquefaciens, which can increase the risk of invasive, potentially life-threatening infections for immunocompromised people. Consumers who have this product should avoid using it and return any remaining product to the place of purchase. As magnesium citrate is one of the preparation options for colonoscopy, we want to inform you about alternatives to magnesium citrate for colonoscopy preparation. Please note that you should not use any of the preparation methods listed below unless instructed by your doctor. 

Miralax Colonoscopy Preparation at Digestive Healthcare Center

Colonoscopy preparation most commonly involves following a clear liquid diet the day before your procedure. At DHC, the main preparation option we instruct patients to utilize involves taking four Dulcolax pills with water the day before your procedure. You will then mix a bottle of Miralax powder with 64 oz. of Gatorade, Powerade, or Propel (avoid the color red), drinking one dose the evening before your procedure and the other dose 4 hours before your procedure start time. 

Half Lytely Bowel Prep for Colonoscopy

For this method of colonoscopy preparation, you will purchase a HalfLytely Preparation Kit with a prescription from your doctor. Mix the HalfLytely according to the instructions and then refrigerate the mixture. Later in the day, you will take 2 Bisacodyl tablets with water, and around three hours later, begin drinking the HalfLytely. We recommend drinking one 8-oz. glass every 15 minutes, and you should drink each glass rapidly rather than sipping slowly. 

TriLyte Bowel Prep for Colonoscopy

If your doctor instructs you to use TriLyte for your colonoscopy preparation, you will need to fill your prescription and purchase two over-the-counter Dulcolax pills. Mix the TriLyte as directed in the morning on the day before your procedure, then store it in the refrigerator. You should continue drinking clear liquids frequently throughout the day to avoid dehydration. You will take two Dulcolax pills with water at noon the day before your procedure, and later in the evening, begin drinking half of the TriLyte. Around 4 AM the next morning, you will finish the TriLyte. 

Using Suprep to Prepare for Colonoscopy

The Suprep method for colonoscopy does not involve any laxative pills – just two 6-ounce bottles of Suprep. You will drink one 6-ounce bottle mixed with water at 4 PM the day before your procedure, and the other bottle mixed with water at 8 PM. You will need to drink 64 ounces of water along with the Suprep throughout the preparation process. Your doctor will advise you if this prep is right for you.

Colyte Preparation for Colonoscopy

If you are advised by your doctor to use Colyte to prepare for your colonoscopy, you will need to drink the Colyte solution mixed with one gallon of water between 4 PM and 10 PM the day before your procedure. We suggest drinking it chilled, which makes it more palatable. Do not add anything to the solution, and be sure to drink the entire volume provided. Then, at 9 PM, take four Dulcolax tablets. You should not take anything by mouth within 4 hours of your procedure start time. This rule applies to all of the above preparation options. 

Safely Preparing for Colonoscopy in NJ

As discussed above, there are many alternatives to magnesium citrate for colonoscopy preparation, and your provider will determine which one is right for you. You will receive comprehensive instructions on how to prepare for your procedure, and following the instructions closely is key to ensuring that your doctor can fully visualize the colon. As a reminder, these preps are not to be used unless instructed by your gastroenterologist during your office visit. If you have any questions about the preparation process, we would be happy to help. Our providers at DHC work with patients of all ages to diagnose and treat all manner of digestive health conditions, and we are proud to provide both diagnostic and screening colonoscopy in NJ so patients can stay on top of their digestive health. To learn more about the care we provide or to schedule an appointment at our offices in Hillsborough or Somerville, NJ, please contact us today!

Make an Appointment for Comprehensive Digestive Care in NJ

At Digestive Healthcare Center, we want each patient at our three offices in New Jersey to feel confident about their digestive health. We encourage you to contact us today to make an appointment with one of our expert gastroenterologists – don’t wait to start putting your digestive health first!

Recent Blogs

Learn more about all things digestive health and wellness by checking out our recent gastroenterology blogs.

Diverticular disease 2
July 13, 2023
Diverticular Disease & Diverticulitis: What You Need to Know

Diverticular disease and diverticulitis are related digestive health conditions that affect the large intestine (colon). With diverticular disease, small, bulging pockets develop on the lining of the colon. When these pockets become inflamed or infected, the condition is called diverticulitis. They are very common – especially after age 40 – and rarely cause problems. At […]

National Nutrition Month
March 20, 2023
March 2023 is National Nutrition Month

Many Americans like to set New Year’s resolutions to make positive lifestyle changes such as improving their diet and going to the gym. However, March is also a great time for a healthy focus, especially as the long winter season comes to an end. National Nutrition Month, sponsored by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, […]

Gallbladder
March 14, 2023
Gallstones: Should I Get Gallbladder Surgery?

Gallstones form when bile stored in the gallbladder hardens. Your gallbladder is a small, pear-shaped organ on the right side of your abdomen, just beneath your liver. It holds a digestive fluid called bile that’s released into your small intestine. Gallstones are pebble-like pieces of concentrated bile material, typically made up of cholesterol or bilirubin […]