Polyethylene glycol-electrolyte solution (PEG-ES)

Polyethylene glycol-electrolyte solution (PEG-ES) is used to cleanse the bowel before a gastrointestinal examination or surgery. It works by causing diarrhea.

This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

Polyethylene glycol-electrolyte solution (PEG-ES) comes as a powder to take by mouth. You should prepare the solution in the container; follow the instructions on the label carefully. An 8-ounce (240-milliliter) glass of solution should be rapidly swallowed every 10 minutes until the prescribed amount of liquid has been taken or your stool is watery, clear, and free of solid matter. Your doctor will tell you at what time you should begin drinking PEG-ES. You should not eat for at least 3 to 4 hours before you are told to begin drinking PEG-ES. You should not take any oral medications within 1 hour of starting PEG-ES. You should begin having bowel movements within 1 hour of beginning PEG-ES. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take PEG-ES exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.

Before taking PEG-ES,

• tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to PEG-ES or any other drugs.
• tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, including vitamins or herbal products.
• tell your doctor if you have or have ever had a gastrointestinal disease or obstruction.
• tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding.

PEG-ES may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:

• nausea

• stomach pain

• bloating

• vomiting

• rectal irritation

If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:

• rash

• hives

• skin irritation

If you experience a serious side effect, you or your doctor may send a report to the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program online [at http://www.fda.gov/Safety/MedWatch] or by phone [1-800-332-1088].

Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store the mixed solution in the refrigerator and use it within 48 hours. Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.

Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory.

Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.

It is important for you to keep a written list of all of the prescription and nonprescription (over-the-counter) medicines you are taking, as well as any products such as vitamins, minerals, or other dietary supplements. You should bring this list with you each time you visit a doctor or if you are admitted to a hospital. It is also important information to carry with you in case of emergencies.

Last Reviewed - 02/01/2009