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!