polyethylene glycol 3350 + bisacodyl

Polyethylene glycol 3350 + bisacodyl is a combination of two laxatives—polyethylene glycol 3350 (an osmotic laxative) and bisacodyl (a stimulant laxative)—formulated for oral use to clean out the gastrointestinal tract prior to colonoscopy[2][3][7]. Polyethylene glycol 3350 retains water in the colon through osmotic action, causing catharsis, while bisacodyl is hydrolyzed in the colon to its active metabolite and stimulates peristaltic activity in the large intestine[3]. This combination is indicated for bowel cleansing prior to colonoscopy, with effectiveness dependent on correct dosing and administration[2][3]. The regimen is associated with potential risks such as electrolyte abnormalities, dehydration, and ischemic colitis, particularly if overdosed[3][7]. Major US brands for the combination include GaviLyte-H and Bisacodyl and HalfLytely and Bisacodyl[2][3][7]. The combination is generally administered as a single kit: an oral bisacodyl tablet followed by reconstituted polyethylene glycol 3350 solution (with electrolytes)[3]. Use is contraindicated in patients with gastrointestinal obstruction, bowel perforation, toxic colitis, toxic megacolon, gastric retention, ileus, and certain hypersensitivities[2][3].

Brand names

GaviLyte-H and BisacodylHalfLytely and BisacodylPEG-Prep and Bisacodyl

Other names

bisacodyl and polyethylene glycol 3350bisacodyl + polyethylene glycol 3350bisacodyl and PEG-3350 with electrolytes