polyethylene glycol + bisacodyl + docusate sodium

Polyethylene glycol + bisacodyl + docusate sodium is a combination bowel preparation regimen used to cleanse the colon in preparation for colonoscopy. This regimen, specifically studied in clinical trials by Tanta University, combines the osmotic effects of polyethylene glycol (PEG) with the stimulant properties of bisacodyl and the surfactant stool-softening action of docusate sodium. Polyethylene glycol works by drawing water into the intestinal lumen, thereby increasing stool volume and promoting evacuation. Bisacodyl, a stimulant laxative, acts on the enteric nervous system to increase peristaltic activity. Docusate sodium reduces the surface tension of the stool, allowing water and fats to penetrate more easily. The regimen typically involves a 4-liter split-dose of PEG solution (often using the brand Moviprep) and oral tablets containing bisacodyl and docusate sodium (often using the brand Minalax). This multi-modal approach is designed to achieve high-quality bowel cleansing, which is critical for the accurate detection of colonic lesions during colonoscopy.

Brand names

MoviprepMinalax

Other names

4-L split-dose polyethylene glycol and Bisacodyl + Docusate sodium