I have to work until 4pm the day before my colonoscopy, can I start prepping then?

Yes, but be careful to follow the diet instructions during the day prior to your procedure (and before) and be sure to complete the entire prep.

I take a stool softener daily already. Should I take it while prepping?

No, but if you are typically constipated, consider having additional MiraLAX on hand during the prep and use if needed to ensure a complete cleanse.

Do I have to drink all that liquid?

Yes, we encourage you to drink all the liquid to improve the quality of the preparation. In fact, to make the prep more effective, you should drink additional water and other clear liquids to stay hydrated while taking your prep.

Can I mix all the MiraLAX and Gatorade at once?

Yes

Can I mix MiraLAX with water?

Yes

Is it ok to mix my prep with alcohol? Why not?

Not recommended – the prep will cause dehydration and significant diarrhea, possibly with a lot of urgency. Alcohol intoxication while going through the prep should be avoided at all costs.

Is cola (Pepsi and Coke) considered a clear liquid?

Yes. A clear liquid means that it is “see through” — it is not about color.

Why can’t I eat nuts, seeds, popcorn, or corn (other examples include tomatoes, granola with dried fruit, raisins) the week prior to my procedure?

Nuts and seeds often linger in the intestine and end up clogging up the scope during the colonoscopy, making visibility difficult and may lead to an incomplete colonoscopy.

I ate nuts or seeds less than a week prior to my procedure, is that ok?

Yes, for the most part, although it may make your prep harder. Do not continue to eat them. Nuts and seeds clog the scope when suctioning fluid during the procedure. Their presence may also inhibit the detection of polyps. Increase your water intake over the next few days prior to prep to try to flush these out. Consider taking additional MiraLAX if you are not running clear.

Can I have peanut butter or spaghetti sauce?

Yes, you may have smooth peanut butter. Try to avoid spaghetti sauce with large pieces of tomato, as they leave residue in the colon.

When do I call if I am concerned about not being cleansed?

Preferably the afternoon or evening before 7 pm the day prior to your procedure, or the morning of the exam after 7 am, unless your procedure is scheduled prior to 8 am.

The day of the colonoscopy — if my stool is clear, do I need to take the 2nd bottle of Magnesium Citrate?

If possible, please try to take all of the magnesium citrate recommended, as digestion is still occurring and it will provide the most effective cleanse.

I smoke Cannabis/Marijuana. Will this affect my sedation medications?

Yes, it may make you harder to sedate. If you have concerns, please contact the office.

Is it okay to take supplements and/or OTC meds such as Claritin up until the procedure and the day of the procedure?

Yes, that is ok. We ask that patients stop taking iron supplements 1 week prior to the procedure, but won’t cancel or reschedule a procedure if they don’t.