Indications
- Sodium picosulfate/magnesium oxide/citric acid solution is utilized to cleanse the intestines before surgery or specific procedures like colonoscopy and X-rays.
- It functions as a laxative by drawing large amounts of water into the intestines and stimulating the colon.
- The result is watery bowel movements (diarrhea), aiding in clearing stool from the intestines.
- This cleansing process enhances the doctor’s ability to examine the inside of the colon effectively.
Dosage and administration
- Read the Medication Guide and Instructions for Use provided by the pharmacist before using this product or each refill.
- Follow all instructions from your doctor or the manufacturer; consult your doctor or pharmacist for any questions.
- Adhere to any special diet instructions, typically limiting intake to clear liquids the day before the procedure.
- Avoid milk, dairy products, red/dark-colored liquids, or alcohol.
- To prevent dehydration, drink clear liquids before, during, and after taking the medication as directed by your doctor.
- Consume water and other specified clear liquids according to your doctor’s instructions.
- Take the product in 2 separate doses as directed by your doctor based on age and medical condition.
- The product comes as powder packets or liquid; follow instructions for your specific product.
- If using powder packets, mix each dose with cold water before use and drink the entire mixture.
- If bloating or abdominal pain occurs, consider pausing clear liquids or extending the time between doses.
- Watery bowel movements usually begin 2 to 4 hours after taking the medication, indicating its effectiveness.
- Access to a toilet is advised until the medication’s effects have worn off.
- Avoid taking other medications by mouth within 1 hour before starting this product; some medications should not be taken within 2 hours before or 6 hours after.
- Specific medications, including digoxin, iron, tetracycline antibiotics, quinolone antibiotics, chlorpromazine, and penicillamine, have timing restrictions; consult your doctor or pharmacist for guidance.
Side effects
- Expect frequent, very watery bowel movements after consuming this product, potentially accompanied by nausea, vomiting, bloating, headache, or stomach/abdominal cramps.
- If these effects persist or worsen, promptly inform your doctor or pharmacist.
- If directed by your doctor, understand that the benefits of using this medication outweigh the risk of side effects for most people.
- Serious side effects may include dehydration, leading to confusion, severe dizziness, fainting, fast/irregular heartbeat, or seizures; contact your doctor immediately if you experience these.
- Other serious side effects to report promptly include severe or persistent stomach/abdominal pain, signs of kidney problems (such as changes in urine), bloody stools, or rectal bleeding.
- A rare but severe allergic reaction may occur; seek immediate medical help if you notice symptoms like rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.
- The list of possible side effects is not exhaustive; contact your doctor or pharmacist if you observe other unlisted effects.
Precautions
- Inform your doctor or pharmacist about any allergies before taking this medication, as it may contain inactive ingredients that could cause allergic reactions.
- Disclose your medical history, especially heart problems, kidney problems, salt/mineral imbalance, seizures, stomach/intestinal problems, and trouble swallowing, before using this medication.
- Before surgery, inform your doctor or dentist about all products you use, including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products.
- During pregnancy, use this medication only if clearly needed; discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
- It is unknown if the product passes into breast milk; consult your doctor before breastfeeding.