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Glasses of Water

Colonoscopy Preparation Instructions

A successful colonoscopy starts with a successful bowel preparation. 

Inadequate prep is associated with lower polyp detection rate and repeating the procedure at a shorter interval due to low visibility. A clean bowel will ensure the endoscopist can clearly see and remove polyps in your colon. Please review our step by step instructions below: 

01.

Purchase the following:

  • PegLyte 4L jug

  • Dulcolax (5mg overnight)

  • A supply of clear drinks

02.

Seven (7) days before your appointment:

  • STOP taking iron supplements (if applicable).

03.

Four (4) days before your appointment:

  • STOP eating ALL seeds and nuts. Including: multigrain breads, flax seeds, fruits with seeds (tomatoes, cucumbers, grapes, watermelon seeds, all berries, etc.)

04.

One (1) day before your appointment:

YOU MUST REMAIN ON CLEAR FLUIDS ONLY. NO SOLID FOOD.

  • 1:00PM: Take 4 Dulcolax tablets with water

  • 5:30PM-8:30PM: Drink three (3) litres of PegLyte (see instructions on container).

05.

Day of your Colonoscopy Appointment:

  • - Five (5) hours before your appointment: Drink the fourth (4th) litre of Peglyte

  • - Four (4) hours before your appointment: You must stop drinking ALL fluids

06.

Make sure you: 

  • Wear comfortable clothes

  • Avoid wearing nail polish or valuable jewellery 

  • Bring your OHIP card 

  • Bring your cell phone

  • Bring juice (Vitamin Water/Gatorade) to drink after the procedure to restore electrolytes

  • Have a driver over 18 y/o to pick you up from the appointment

  • (Optional) Bring an extra pair of underwear

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