5 Questions to Settle Before Colonoscopy Prep Day

Read the prep sheet while there’s still time to call the clinic.

Five answers to get in advance

1. Which medicines should I take, change or hold? Send your complete list, including supplements. ASGE² highlights blood thinners, diabetes medicines, aspirin products and iron. Let the clinic give you instructions for each; don’t decide from a generic checklist.¹²

2. When do food and drink rules start? Your written plan should explain when to change your diet and when to stop drinking. Clear liquids contain no pulp, solids or cream. Ask about anything you’re unsure of, including drink colors.¹

3. What are my exact dose times? Many regimens split the prep between the evening before and procedure day. An early appointment may mean an early second dose. Follow the prescribed schedule and drinking cutoff.²

4. Who do I call if I can’t finish? Nausea, vomiting or a missed dose can disrupt the plan. ASGE² advises calling the clinic if you cannot complete it as instructed; the procedure may need rescheduling.²

5. Who is taking me home? Sedation or anesthesia takes time to wear off, so arrange a ride before the procedure. Confirm the clinic’s escort requirements while making that arrangement.¹

Set up the day around the instructions

Prep causes diarrhea, so stay near a bathroom. Keep the sheet and clinic phone number accessible.¹

Put dose times in your calendar. Check that the prescription is ready and that your ride knows the appointment details. If two sets of instructions disagree, call for clarification before following either schedule.

Bloated by Dinner includes a visit script and a Belly Clock log in its listed toolkit. Those can help you organize digestive symptoms and questions for appointments. Your clinic supplies the procedure-specific prep plan. See the book.