Colonoscopy Preparation

Prep: CLENPIQ (Sodium Picosulfate)

Colonoscopy Preparation

A colonoscopy is a procedure that allows your doctor to examine the lining of your large intestine (colon) for abnormalities. Proper preparation is essential for a successful procedure. Your doctor will prescribe one of the prep options below.

Your specific procedure location, date, and arrival time will be provided by our office. These are general preparation guidelines — always follow the specific instructions given to you by your doctor.

Select your prescribed prep:

Items to Purchase

One (1) CLENPIQ box with two 5.8oz bottles (from pharmacy with prescription)
Two (2) Extra Strength Simethicone tablets 125mg (Gas-X or generic)

Procedure Locations

Your procedure location will be confirmed by our office.

Raritan Valley Surgery Center

100 Franklin Square Drive, Suite 100, Somerset, NJ

Phone: 732-560-1000 | Fax: 732-566-5999

Saint Peter's University Hospital

254 Easton Ave, New Brunswick, NJ

Phone: 732-745-8600 Ext: 8467 | Fax: 732-745-2008

Preparation Timeline

7 Days Before

Stop all weight loss medications (Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, etc.)

5 Days Before

Stop all NSAIDs (Aleve, Advil, Motrin, etc.). Baby aspirin (81mg) is OK.
If on blood thinners, follow your doctor’s instructions on when to stop.
Tylenol is OK to take.

3 Days Before

Begin a low residue/low fiber diet.
Avoid: whole grains, nuts, seeds, raw vegetables, fresh fruit, beans, corn, popcorn, fiber supplements, beverages with pulp.

Day Before Procedure

Stay on a clear liquid diet the entire day.
Stay hydrated with at least 64 oz of clear liquids.

Timing Instructions

6:00 PM (day before): Drink the first bottle of CLENPIQ. Then drink about 5 glasses of water (40 oz) over the next 2 hours.

5 hours before arrival time: Take 2 Simethicone tablets. Drink the second bottle of CLENPIQ. Then drink about 5 glasses of water (40 oz) over the next 2 hours.

Stop drinking all clear liquids 3 hours before arrival time.

Clear Liquid Diet

Allowed

Apple juice or white grape juice (no pulp)
Water, Gatorade, Powerade
Clear soda (Ginger ale, Sprite)
Coffee or tea without milk or creamer
Plain Jell-O (no fruit or toppings)
Ice popsicles (no sherbet or fruit bars)
Fat-free and low sodium clear broth

Avoid

Alcohol
Milk, cream, or other dairy products
Juices with pulp
Smoothies or shakes

High Fiber Foods to Avoid (starting 3 days before):

Whole grain breads, oatmeal, cereals, granola
Nuts, seeds, raw/dried vegetables or fresh fruit (no salads)
Beverages with pulp
Fiber supplements
Beans, corn, popcorn

Day of Procedure

You will have diarrhea — this is normal.
Mild bloating, cramps, nausea, or vomiting may occur.
Stool should be clear yellow or tea-colored.
You must have an adult to drive you home. No taxis or ride shares.
Leave all jewelry at home.
Bring your insurance card and photo ID.

Frequently Asked Questions

This procedure is performed at an ambulatory surgical center and your benefits such as co-pays, deductibles, and co-insurance will apply. Please contact your insurance carrier to verify your benefits (this is NOT an office procedure).

Questions About Your Preparation?

If you have any questions about these instructions or your upcoming procedure, please don't hesitate to reach out.