OsmoPrep

Our doctors use a variety of preparations depending on individual patient medical history, risk factors, personal preference, and other factors. When your procedure is scheduled, the scheduler will review your medical history and select the preparation best suited for you.

Colonoscopy OsmoPrep® Preparation

There have been rare, but serious reports of acute phosphate nephropathy (damage to the kidneys caused by formation of crystals within the kidney) in patients who received oral sodium phosphate products like Osmoprep for colon cleansing prior to colonoscopy. If you have kidney disease or congestive heart failure, you are at higher risk. All patients taking Osmoprep should be careful to consume plenty of fluids before and during the prep. Drink at least 8 cups (2 quarts) of fluid on the day of your prep.

PREPARATION BEGINS BEFORE YOUR SCHEDULED APPOINTMENT

YOU WILL NEED TO BUY:

  • OsmoPrep® tablets by prescription
  • Two (2) over-the-counter bisacodyl laxative tablets (Dulcolax® or other brand) – do not purchase stool softener or suppositories
  • Items from the clear liquid diet list on the next page such as Jell-O®, broth and clear juices or drinks
  • Desitin® cream may help if the rectal area becomes irritated by frequent stools during your preparation

DIET CHANGES:

Some foods make it more difficult to clean the colon well. Avoid large amounts of nuts or seeds, including flax seed, and lettuce salads 2-3 days before your procedure. Also avoid fat free Pringles or Frito-Lay Light snacks one week prior to your appointment. These foods contain Olestra, a fat substitute that can leave a thick film in the colon.

The day before your appointment you must be on a clear liquid diet. Clear liquids are any liquid that you can see through. Avoid any red liquids or alcoholic beverages.

CLEAR LIQUIDS INCLUDE:

  • Water
  • Clear fruit juices such as apple or white grape
  • Bouillon or clear broth
  • Jell-O without fruit added - no red flavors
  • Hard candy
  • Coffee and tea without milk or creamer
  • Popsicles - no red flavors
  • Gatorade®, Powerade®, or Propel®- no red flavors
  • Carbonated beverages such as Coke, 7-Up, Mountain Dew, etc.

THE DAY BEFORE THE PROCEDURE:

Beginning the day before your scheduled appointment, consume only clear liquids in place of solid food the entire day.

AT NOON:

  • Take two (2) Dulcolax® tablets.

AT 6PM:

1st dosing regimen:

  • Take four (4) OsmoPrep tablets with 12 ounces of clear liquid every 15 minutes until 20 tablets have been consumed. (A total of 5 doses)
  • Continue to drink clear liquids.

5 to 6 HOURS BEFORE YOUR SCHEDULED PROCEDURE TIME:

2nd dosing regimen:

  • Take four (4) OsmoPrep tablets with 12 ounces of clear liquid every 15 minutes until 12 tablets have been consumed. (A total of 3 doses)
  • After completing this series of laxative doses, have nothing to eat or drink until your procedure.

***Your body loses significant amounts of fluid during bowel preparation. In order to prevent dehydration and possible kidney damage, it is important to supplement that fluid loss with clear liquids. Make a conscious effort to drink as much as you can before, during and after the preparation.***

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