Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Magnesium sulfate, potassium sulfate, and sodium sulfate are employed to evacuate the colon prior to a colonoscopy, a procedure conducted to examine the colon’s interior for signs of colon cancer and other irregularities. This combination of substances falls into the category of osmotic laxatives. Its mechanism involves inducing watery diarrhea, facilitating the expulsion of stool from the colon, ensuring a clear visualization of the colon walls for the medical practitioner.
Uses and Dosage
Magnesium sulfate, potassium sulfate, and sodium sulfate are available in both liquid form and as tablets for oral consumption. Typically, the initial dose is taken the night before the scheduled colonoscopy, followed by a second dose on the morning of the procedure. The precise timing will be specified by your doctor.
Stick to the prescribed dosage and do not exceed or reduce it without your doctor’s approval.
In preparation for the colonoscopy, you are required to abstain from solid food and milk starting from the day before the procedure. Clear liquids such as water, light-colored fruit juice without pulp, clear broth, coffee or tea without milk, flavored gelatin, popsicles, and soft drinks are permissible during this period. Avoid consuming alcoholic beverages or any red or purple liquids. Seek clarification from your doctor if you have any queries about the permissible liquids before the colonoscopy.
For those taking the solution, it is necessary to mix the medication with water just before ingestion to mitigate the risk of unpleasant or hazardous side effects. Each dose involves pouring one bottle of the solution into the provided dosing container and filling it with water up to the designated line (16 ounces, 480 mL or 12 ounces, 300 mL). Consume the entire mixture promptly. The first dose is taken on the evening before the colonoscopy, followed by drinking two containers (16 ounces, 480 mL or 12 ounces, 300 mL) of water within the next hour before bedtime. The second dose is scheduled for the following morning before the colonoscopy, with the requirement to drink two containers of water within the next hour.
Ensure that all liquids are consumed at least 2 hours before the colonoscopy.
For individuals opting for tablets, each dose consists of 12 tablets. The first dose (12 tablets) is taken on the evening before the scheduled colonoscopy, and the second dose (12 tablets) is taken the following morning. For each dose, fill the provided container with water up to the specified line (16 ounces, 480 mL) and take each tablet with a sip of water.
Consume the entire contents of the cup over 15 to 20 minutes. Approximately 1 hour after each dose (12 tablets), drink one 16-ounce container of water over 30 minutes; 30 minutes after completing the second water container, drink another 16-ounce container of water over 30 minutes. Finish all drinks at least 2 hours before the colonoscopy after taking the second dose.
Expect multiple bowel movements during the treatment with magnesium sulfate, potassium sulfate, and sodium sulfate. Stay in close proximity to a toilet from the first dose until your colonoscopy appointment.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- stomach pain or cramps
- bloating
- nausea
- headache
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- seizures
- fainting
- feeling confused
- vomiting, especially if you can’t keep down the fluids that you need for your treatment
- difficulty swallowing
- rectal bleeding
- deceased urination
- dizziness
- irregular heartbeat
- sudden, severe pain in one or more joints
Caution
- Prior to taking this medication, inform your doctor or pharmacist about any allergies you may have. The product may contain inactive ingredients that could trigger allergic reactions or other complications.
- Before initiating this medication, disclose your medical history to your doctor or pharmacist, especially if you have a history of blocked intestines (gastrointestinal obstruction), perforation in the intestines, severe ulcers or inflammation of the colon (ulcerative colitis), serious intestinal infections, delayed stomach/intestinal emptying or motility issues, difficulty swallowing, difficulty retaining food, a history of inhaling food or other substances into the lungs, gout, heart problems, kidney problems, seizures, or if you regularly use alcohol or other sedatives.
- During pregnancy, use this medication only when it is clearly necessary. Discuss the potential risks and benefits with your doctor.
- It is uncertain whether this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Form and Strength
Suprep Bowel Kit is available in the following forms and strengths:
- Suprep Bowel Kit oral solution:
- 17.5 g / 3.13 g / 1.6 g
FAQ
How long after taking Suprep will I have a bowel movement?
Watery bowel movements usually begin about 1 hour after you drink the mixed liquid.
Is it better to drink Suprep fast or slow?
It is best if you drink the mixed solution at room temperature and with slow sips.
Resources
- https://www.centracare.com/documents/digestive-care/Bowel-Preparation-Instructions-Suprep.pdf
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/sodium-sulfate-potassium-sulfate-and-magnesium-sulfate-oral-route/description/drg-20405981
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-154631/suprep-bowel-prep-kit-oral/details
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a619013.html
- https://www.drugs.com/suprep.html
