DRUGS AND SUPPLEMENTS

Polyethylene Glycol; Electrolytes; Bisacodyl

March 21, 2017

Bisacodyl Gastro-resistant tablet, Sodium Bicarbonate, Sodium Chloride, Polyethylene Glycol 3350, Potassium Chloride Oral solution

What is this medicine?

POLYETHYLENE GLYCOL; ELECTROLYTES; BISACODYL (pol ee ETH i leen GLYE col; i LEK truh lahyts; bis a KOE dill) bowel prep kit is a combination laxative. It is used to clean out the bowel before a colonoscopy.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • any chronic disease of the intestine, stomach, or throat

  • kidney disease

  • stomach pain or blockage

  • an unusual or allergic reaction to polyethylene glycol, bisacodyl, other medicines, dyes, or preservatives

  • pregnant or trying to get pregnant

  • breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth. Swallow the tablets whole with a glass of water. Do not crush or chew. Do not attempt to swallow the dry powder before mixing it with water. To take this medicine, you must prepare a solution as indicated on the package label. Other than the flavor packs provided, do not add any additional ingredients or flavors to the solution. You may chill the solution before using it to improve its taste. Shake well before each dose. Your doctor will tell you at what time to start this medicine. Take exactly as directed. You will have the first bowel movement about 1 to 6 hours after you take the tablets. Once you start taking the solution, you will have frequent watery bowel movements.

You will need to follow a special diet before your procedure. Talk to your doctor or healthcare professional.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you've taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

Talk to your doctor if you are not able to complete the bowel preparation as advised.

What may interact with this medicine?

  • antacids

  • diuretics

  • medicines for blood pressure like enalapril, lisinopril, quinapril, and ramipril

  • medicines for stomach problems like famotidine, nizatidine, ranitidine, esomeprazole, omeprazole, pantoprazole, and rabeprazole

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Do not take any other medicine by mouth starting one hour before you take this medicine. Talk to your doctor about when to take your other medicines.

Do not take this medicine within 1 hour of taking antacids or eating dairy products like milk or yogurt. These items can destroy the protective coating on the tablets and increase stomach upset and cramps.

Do not inhale dust from the solution powder. This can make breathing difficult or may cause sneezing or an allergic-type reaction.

Bloating may occur before the first bowel movement. If your discomfort continues while you are drinking the solution, stop drinking the solution temporarily or drink each portion with longer spaces in between until your symptoms disappear.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

  • allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

  • breathing problems

  • chest tightness

  • seizures

  • vomiting

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (Report these to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome.):

  • anal irritation

  • bloating, pain, or distension of the stomach

  • headache

  • hunger, thirst

  • nausea

  • stomach gas

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Protect from moisture. Once the solution has been prepared, store it in the refrigerator to improve its taste. Do not freeze. Throw away any unused solution 48 hours after mixing.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.

Updated:  

March 21, 2017

Sources:  

U.S. FDA-approved Package Insert