On the day of your colonoscopy, your colon must be clean on the inside, and you must have a ride home after the procedure. An unclean colon can lead to a rescheduled test, missed lesions, longer procedure time, and higher risk of complications.
7 days before
- If you have diabetes, you will receive special instructions about medication.
- If you take blood thinners or other clotting-related medicines, you may need to adjust them 7 to 3 days before — confirm with your doctor.
3 days before
- Stop eating nuts, seeds, corn, or popcorn.
- Buy a variety of clear liquids (no red, blue, or purple flavors).
Clear liquids include: broth, strained juices without pulp (apple or white grape), black coffee or tea (no milk), sports drinks, clear soft drinks, gelatin, and popsicles — again avoiding red, blue, and purple colors.
2 days before
Drink at least 8 glasses of water or other clear liquids during the day to stay hydrated.
The day before
- Stop all solid foods.
- Start a clear liquid diet only.
- Begin the bowel prep exactly as checked on your instruction sheet from the office.
A common one-day method includes taking stimulant tablets at midday and drinking a large volume of mixed prep solution later in the day and evening. Follow the specific plan you were given — do not improvise.
Day of the procedure
You will receive sedation and must have someone drive you home. Do not plan to work, drive, or make important decisions that day.
Questions about your prep? Call the office at (208) 302-2400.