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IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.
POLYETHYLENE GLYCOL (PEG) 3350 W/ ELECTROLYTE AND BISACODYL - ORAL
(pol-ee-ETH-i-leen GLYE-kole/) (ee-LECK-tro-lite and bis-a-KOE-dil)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): HalfLytely
USES: This medication is used to clean the intestine to prepare you for rectal or bowel examinations.
This product is a combination of two laxatives, bisacodyl and PEG with electrolyte. Bisacodyl works directly on the large intestine to make you have bowel movements. It is known as a stimulant-type laxative. PEG with electrolyte works by holding water in the stool to cause watery bowel movements. It is known as an osmotic-type laxative.
HOW TO USE: Read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist before you start taking this medication and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Take this product by mouth exactly as directed by your doctor. Do not take antacids for at least one hour before starting this product. Take the prescribed number of bisacodyl tablets with water before using the PEG with electrolyte oral solution. Do not chew or crush the tablets. You should have a bowel movement usually within 1 to 6 hours after taking the bisacodyl tablets. After you have your first bowel movement or after waiting for a maximum of 6 hours, begin drinking the PEG with electrolyte oral solution.
The PEG with electrolyte powder must be mixed with water before use. Follow the instructions provided with the product or as directed by your doctor or pharmacist. Fill the container with the correct amount of water, cap the bottle, and shake well to make sure the powder dissolves completely. Do not add any other ingredients to the solution. Drink one full glass (8 ounces or 240 milliliters) of the solution every 10 minutes until you finish the total amount prescribed by your doctor. Rapid drinking of each glassful is preferred to drinking small amounts continuously. Do not save any unused solution for future use. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions about how to use this product.
Do not take any other medication by mouth within one hour of starting this product since the other medication may not be absorbed. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about rescheduling your other medications while you are taking this product.
Be sure to follow your doctor's instructions about your diet before starting this product, while you are taking it, and after you finish the product. It is usually recommended that you drink only clear liquids and do not eat any solid food when you are preparing for your bowel examination. Do not drink large amounts of fluids after taking this product. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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