Procedure Prep Guide
For the best and safest examination, the stomach must be completely empty. You should have nothing to eat or drink, including water, for approximately 6 hours before the examination. Your doctor will be more specific about the time to begin fasting, depending on the time of day that your test is scheduled.
It is best to inform your doctor of your current medications including over-the-counter pain relievers, vitamins, and herbal supplements. It is also important to inform your physician of any medication or latex allergies. Also, you should notify your physician if you are taking any blood thinners such as Aspirin, Coumadin, Plavix, Aggrenox, Ticlid, or Persantine.
Have more questions? Check our FAQ’s for answers!
Everything you need to know for a successful procedure can be found here
Your gastroenterologist has ordered a specific bowel prep, which our pharmacy partner, Gifthealth, will distribute. Their patient advocates are readily available to answer any questions you may have.
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Prep Instructions
Colonoscopy & Procedure Prep Frequently Asked Questions
How will I learn the results of the test?
You will be told about the preliminary results of the test before you leave to go home. You will also be given written information about those results, since it’s common not to remember everything discussed right after a procedure. If biopsies are taken or polyps are removed, we will contact you through the patient portal or by mail in about 10–14 business days.
Can I drink alcoholic beverages?
We ask that you DO NOT drink any alcoholic beverages the day before or the day of your procedure.
How long will my procedure last?
Plan on spending 2-3 hours total in the Endoscopy Unit. This includes time needed to prepare for the procedure, perform the procedure, and recover after the procedure.
What if I am sick?
If you are sick, you may keep your scheduled appointment as long as you are not vomiting or experiencing a fever or a productive cough (with sputum/phlegm). If you are unsure whether you are well enough, please call the office before your appointment.
Should I take my blood pressure and/or heart medicine in the morning before my colonoscopy?
Yes. You should take all hypertension and cardiac medications at your usual times with a small amount of water. ***AS LONG AS THE MEDICATION IS NOT A BLOOD THINNER***
Can I drink smoothies/plant-based juices?
No. Even if they do not contain dairy, the liquid may have seeds and fiber from the fruits and vegetables.
Do I need to take all of the preparation?
Yes, even if stool is clear, you must finish the entire prep. Failure to do so could result in a colon that is not clean enough, which increases the chance that something could be missed. In addition, if the colon is not clean enough, you may have to reschedule your colonoscopy with additional preparation.
Can I still have my procedure if I continue to pass solid stool despite taking all of my preparation?
Solid stool is a sign of insufficient preparation. If you are still passing solid stool up until the time of your procedure, it will likely have to be rescheduled. Please call your doctor’s office if this is the case.
I feel nauseous. What should I do?
It is important that you take your entire Prep. Remember that without a clean bowel, the doctor will not be able to adequately see the inside of your colon to complete the examination. If you feel like vomiting while taking the prep, slow down. Pause for an additional 3-5 minutes between tablets or 30-40 minutes for liquid to allow your stomach to empty. Be sure the prep is chilled for the liquid solutions, and then try to resume the prep at a slower rate, sipping through a straw if possible. If you do vomit and are unable to continue, call us and have a phone number of a pharmacy that is open, in case we need to call in a prescription for an anti-nausea pill.
How can I tell if my bowels are clean before my procedure?
After finishing your laxative, your stool should be watery. The color should be clear or light yellow.
Can I eat the day of the procedure?
No. You cannot eat on the day of your procedure until after it’s finished. You’ll be on clear liquids only, and you’ll need to stop those at the cutoff time listed in your prep instructions. You may eat once the procedure is complete.
Do I need to take the anti-gas pills?
Yes, the anti-gas pills will help reduce air bubbles in your colon and allow your gastroenterology doctor to see inside your colon better. Check your bowel preparation packet for instructions on taking anti-gas pills.
Can I take a bus, taxi, or Uber home by myself after my procedure?
No. Due to the sedation given during the procedure, you are considered impaired, which affects your judgment and reflexes. A responsible adult must accompany you if you use a rideshare company, taxi, or bus.
Can I use cream during the preparation to help with anal irritation I’m experiencing?
Yes, you may apply Desitin, A+D Ointment, Vaseline or any other cream.
Can I have my colonoscopy if I am having my menstrual period?
Yes.
When can I eat after the procedure is done?
In general, you can eat immediately after your procedure as long as you avoid greasy or spicy foods. Please be aware that the sedation medication may cause mild nausea and you may not have a full appetite until the following day.
Can I go back to work following my procedure?
Due to the sedation given during the procedure, you should plan to rest at home for the remainder of the day. You may resume your usual activities the day after your procedure.
Can I drink protein drinks?
No, protein drinks, including shakes, are NOT allowed. One day before your procedure, stop drinking protein drinks. Follow a clear liquid diet as instructed in your bowel preparation packet.
I juice my food. Can I continue to drink it?
No, juiced foods are not allowed. One day before your procedure, stop drinking juiced foods. Follow a clear liquid diet as instructed in your bowel preparation packet.
What if I am on an antibiotic?
This will not interfere with your procedure. The American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ASGE) does not require prophylactic antibiotic use.
My procedure is early in the morning; can I complete all of my prep the night before or do I really have to get up?
It is imperative to follow the detailed prep instructions that were provided by the office. You are required to complete your prep 7 hours prior to your scheduled procedure time as stool and mucus line the colon throughout the night. Failure to do so may result in cancellation of the procedure.