SUPREP Preparation 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 bowel prep kit from your pharmacy (One SUPREP kit). A prescription is needed.

1 Week Before Procedure

1. Do not take oral iron tablets, herbals, and vitamins.
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. You may eat your regular diet.
2. Obtain your SUPREP kit from your pharmacy.
3. Do not take any ibuprofen products (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories – NSAIDS). Tylenol (acetaminophen) is allowed. If you are on aspirin you may continue the aspirin.

The Day Before Procedure

1. You will need to follow a clear liquid diet the entire day before your procedure. No alcohol. No solid foods.
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. At 5:00 p.m. pour one 6 ounce bottle of SUPREP liquid into the mixing container.  Add cool drinking water to the 16 ounce line on the container and mix. Drink all of the liquid in the container.
   NOTE: You must drink two more 16 ounce containers of water over the next hour.
4. You are encouraged to drink clear liquids until you go to bed.
   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.

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, pour one 6 ounce bottle of SUPREP liquid into the mixing container.  Add cool drinking water to the 16 ounce line on the container and mix. Drink all of the liquid in the container.
   NOTE: You must drink two more 16 ounce containers of water over the next hour.
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.