Prescription colonoscopy preps versus
over-the-counter (OTC) laxatives
Some people have been directed by their healthcare provider to use OTC laxatives as a bowel preparation. However, this practice is unproven, as it has not been extensively studied in clinical trials.
Over-the-counter laxatives often rely on sports drinks to replace lost electrolytes. However, sports drinks may not offer sufficient electrolyte replacement during the bowel prep process.1
Furthermore, unlike prescription colonoscopy preps, OTC laxatives have not been studied or FDA approved for colonoscopy preparation. Discuss with your doctor the benefits of an FDA-approved prescription prep that has been studied and shown to be safe and effective when used as directed.
The body loses fluid and important electrolytes, including sodium and potassium, during the bowel prep process. Without the proper electrolyte replacement, dehydration can occur.
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 
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Reference: 1. Data on file, Salix Pharmaceuticals, Inc.