Miralax and Dulcolax Bowel Prep for
Colonoscopy
A bowel prep is done to clear the bowel of all solid matter. Its purpose is to
prepare the bowel for surgery or a procedure. Please follow these
instructions. Begin the bowel prep one day before your scheduled procedure.
To prepare
• Tell your doctor if you have diabetes or take blood thinners. You may
need to stop some of your medicine a few days before your test.
• Ask your doctor if you should take any of your medicines the morning of
your test. If so, take with sips of water only.
• One week before your test:
─ Do not take aspirin products or iron tablets.
─ Do not take fiber supplements like Metamucil, Citrucel or Fiberall.
─ Do not eat popcorn or any corn.
• You will need these items from a pharmacy:
Miralax in large bottle (8.3 ounces or 238 grams)
4 Dulcolax or bisacodyl tablets (5 milligram tablets)
There may be store brands of these products that cost less. Ask the
pharmacist to help you find what you need.
• Buy a large 64-ounce bottle of sports drink such as Gatorade. If you have
diabetes, buy a no or low calorie drink such as Crystal Light instead.
This will be used to mix your Miralax the day before your test. Do not
use carbonated beverages.
• Arrange to have an adult bring you to your appointment and take you
home after your test.
On the day before your test
1. Drink only clear liquids. Avoid all red or purple colored liquids. Do
not eat any solid food or milk products until your test is done.