MoviPrep FAQs

Frequently asked questions about the MoviPrep experience

What is MoviPrep?

MoviPrep is a low-volume, polyethylene glycol (PEG)–based osmotic colonoscopy preparation that is proven to effectively cleanse your colon,1 allowing your doctor to detect and remove abnormal growths that may otherwise grow into cancer.

Is MoviPrep widely used?

Yes. In fact, MoviPrep is the #1-prescribed branded colonoscopy prep in the United States.2

How much solution will I have to drink with MoviPrep?

Unlike traditional colonoscopy preps that require you to drink 4 liters of PEG, MoviPrep requires you to drink 2 liters of PEG and an additional 1 liter of the clear liquid of your choice.

Can I take MoviPrep with a split dose?

Yes. MoviPrep is the first PEG-based prep approved by the FDA for a PM|AM Split Dosing™ regimen. Research shows that this regimen—in which you take the first dose of your prep the day before the procedure and complete the prep on the day of the procedure—improves the overall effectiveness and tolerability of the colonoscopy prep.3 Of course, MoviPrep is also approved for an evening-only dosing regimen. Ultimately, you should follow your doctor's dosing instructions.

What does MoviPrep taste like?

MoviPrep is lemon flavored. Admittedly, however, it may not taste like a glass of fresh-squeezed lemonade. What is important is that MoviPrep effectively cleanses your colon so your doctor can detect and remove abnormal growths during a colonoscopy.

Who should not take MoviPrep?

Do not take MoviPrep if your healthcare provider has told you that you have

  • A blockage in your bowel (obstruction)
  • An opening in the wall of your stomach or intestine (bowel perforation)
  • Problems with food and fluid emptying from your stomach (gastric retention)
  • A very dilated intestine (bowel)
  • An allergy to any of the ingredients in MoviPrep (see Important Safety Information for a full list of ingredients in MoviPrep)

Important Safety Information about MOVIPREP

MOVIPREP® (PEG-3350, sodium sulfate, sodium chloride, potassium chloride, sodium ascorbate and ascorbic acid for oral solution) is an osmotic laxative indicated for cleansing of the colon as a preparation for colonoscopy in adults 18 years of age or older. MOVIPREP is contraindicated in patients with gastrointestinal (GI) obstruction, bowel perforation, gastric retention, ileus, toxic colitis or toxic megacolon, and patients who have had a severe hypersensitivity reaction to any of its components. MOVIPREP should be used with caution in patients at risk of or with fluid and electrolyte abnormalities, hyponatremia, arrhythmias, seizures, in patients with impaired renal function or patients taking concomitant medications that affect renal function, patients with known or suspected inflammatory bowel disease, patients with suspected GI obstruction or perforation, patients at risk for aspiration, and patients with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency. Most common adverse reactions for split dosing (incidence ≥5%) are malaise, nausea, abdominal pain, vomiting, and upper abdominal pain. The most common adverse reactions for evening only dosing (incidence ≥5%) are abdominal distension, anal discomfort, thirst, nausea, abdominal pain, sleep disorder, rigors, hunger, malaise, vomiting, and dizziness. MOVIPREP contains 233 mg of phenylalanine per treatment. Advise patients to hydrate adequately before, during, and after the use of MOVIPREP.

You are encouraged to report negative side effects to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/safety/medwatch/ or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

Complete Prescribing Information pdf icon

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References: 1. MoviPrep [prescribing information]. Morrisville, NC: Salix Pharmaceuticals, Inc; 2011. 2. Medi-Span® Price Rx® [database online]. Indianapolis, IN: Wolters Kluwer Health. http://www.medispan.com/drug-pricing-analysis-pricerx.aspx. Accessed July 18, 2011. 3. Khan MA, Wasiuddin N, Brown M. Patient acceptance, convenience, and efficacy of one-day versus two-day colonoscopy bowel preparation. Poster presented at: Digestive Disease Week; May 20, 2008; San Diego, CA.