How should I take polyethylene glycol electrolyte solution?
Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.
Polyethylene glycol electrolyte powder must be mixed with water into a solution before using it. Do not add any flavorings such as sugar, honey, artificial sweetener, fruit juices, or other beverages.
Shake the mixture well just before you measure a dose. Drink this medicine in the exact portions at the exact time intervals prescribed by your doctor.
This medicine comes with instructions about when and what to eat or drink on your first day of treatment. Each brand may have different instructions.
Do not drink polyethylene glycol electrolyte solution if it has been less than 1 hour since you last ate solid food. For best results, take the medicine 2 to 4 hours after you last ate.
The first watery stool should appear within 1 hour after you start drinking polyethylene glycol electrolyte solution. Keep taking the medicine until you have completed all doses prescribed by your doctor.
Drink plenty of clear liquids (water, broth, black coffee, tea, clear soda) before, during, and after you take this medicine. Avoid foods and beverages that contain pulp or are red or purple in color. You may also eat popsicles (not fruit bars or fudge bars) or gelatin without fruit pieces or toppings.
Do not eat or drink anything within 2 hours before your colonoscopy or other medical test.
Store the unmixed powder at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
Store the mixed solution in a refrigerator in an upright position.
Throw away any polyethylene glycol electrolyte solution you have not used within 24 to 48 hours after it was mixed (follow directions for your specific brand of this medicine).