MiraLAX Prep for Colonoscopy

In order to achieve an accurate evaluation of your lower gastrointestinal (GI) tract, it is important that you properly prepare for the procedure. Doctors are able to obtain the clearest view of the bowel when it is flushed completely free of waste material. The thoroughness of this intestinal cleaning depends on you. Without your cooperation, the examination cannot accomplish its purpose and may have to be repeated.

If you are taking anticoagulants or blood thinners such as, but not limited to, Coumadin (warfarin), Plavix (clopidogrel), Persantine, Aggrenox, Effient, Pradaxa, Xarelto or Eliquis, please discuss this with your Health Care Provider. In most circumstances, these medications are temporarily discontinued prior to your procedure.

If you have questions or you need to reschedule or cancel your procedure, please call (518) 533-5000.

Supplies

1. One 238-gram bottle of MiraLAX. You may purchase this over the counter at a grocery or drug store.
2. One 119-gram bottle of MiraLAX. You may purchase this over the counter at a grocery or drug store.
3. Four Dulcolax laxative (Bisacodyl) tablets.
4. Three 32 oz. bottles of Gatorade (no red).

1 Week Before Procedure

1. Do not take herbals, vitamins, and oral iron supplements.
2. A driver must come with you in order to drive you home after the procedure. You will be sedated for your colonoscopy. 

2 Days Before Procedure

1. Begin your low fiber diet.
2. Obtain the appropriate bowel prep products from your pharmacy.
3. At 5 PM, mix 3 capfuls (17 grams) of MiraLax in 28 oz. of Gatorade and drink until it’s gone. Use the 119 gram bottle of MiraLax for this and there will be some left over.
4.  Stop taking any anti-inflammatory medications (Motrin, Advil, Ibuprofen) except Celebrex and Tylenol.

The Day Before Procedure

1. Do not eat solid food or drink alcohol. Only consume clear liquids all day.
2. Drink an extra 8 ounces of clear liquids every hour, while awake.  Gatorade is preferred, and if needed you may substitute Crystal Light Lemonade, or any other clear liquid.
3. Use the 238 gram bottle of MiraLax and split it evenly between two 28 oz. bottles of Gatorade (7 capfuls per bottle).
4. At 4:00 p.m. take 4 Dulcolax tablets with water and continue clear liquids.
5. At 6:00 p.m. begin drinking the Gatorade/MiraLAX solution. Drink an 8 oz glass every 15 to 30 minutes (over 1-2 hours) until the first bottle is finished. Bowel movements should occur about one hour after the first glass.
   NOTE: It is normal to feel very “full” or “bloated” during your prep. Some people may also experience nausea and vomiting. If this occurs, simply wait about 30 minutes before resuming drinking. This will likely disappear once bowel movements begin. If the vomiting resumes, please call our office at (518) 533-5000.
   If you experience discomfort from frequent stools, you may apply petroleum-based or diaper rash products to the rectal area.

On the Day of the Procedure

1. Do not have anything to eat. No solid foods, no alcohol.
2. 5 to 6 hours before the procedure, drink the second bottle of Gatorade/MiraLAX solution at a rate of 8 ounces every 15 to 30 minutes (over 1 to 2 hours) until the second bottle is finished.
3. 3 hours before the procedure, stop drinking and do not have anything else by mouth until after your procedure. You may take essential morning medications with a sip of water.
4. A driver must come with you in order to drive you home after the procedure. You will be sedated for your colonoscopy.

After the Procedure

1. You may eat your usual diet unless otherwise instructed.
2. Drink 8 ounces of liquid at least 6 times before retiring for the night.