Did I just ruin my colonoscopy prep solution?

May 16, 2023 10:55 AM

I mixed the colonoscopy prep solution with hot water, and I'm worried that it won't work.

I'm using the Golytely prep (peg-3350), which comes powdered in a plastic jug. The instructions say to mix with warm water. We have a well and we only drink filtered water. So I put 1.5 liters of filtered water in the kettle, heated it up-- not to boiling, but probably warmer than you would drink-- and poured it into the jug. I capped the jug so I could shake it up. The jug immediately expanded like it was going to burst, so I took the cap off to let air escape. I heard a fizzing sound. I then added 2.5 liters of cold, filtered water and shook the whole thing up. I'm worried that I ruined the prep solution and it won't work and they'll send me home for not prepping correctly. Do I need to call to get a new jug of Golytely? Will this still clear me out?

posted by tuesdayschild to Health & Fitness (8 answers total)

Best answer: No, you didn't do any harm. the temperature of the water will have no effect on what the laxative will be doing.
posted by OHenryPacey at 11:02 AM on May 16, 2023 [7 favorites]

I mixed with regular cold tap water, added three packets of Crystal Light Lemonade powder, and pounded it down. It really helps if it is very, very cold when you drink it. Shake well.

I'd give it a shot, and you will know soon enough if it is working. Maybe call the pharmacy for a new bottle before you start? Or have someone get it for you?
posted by Windopaene at 11:04 AM on May 16, 2023 [5 favorites]

You haven’t ruined it. You can call the pharmacist and check if you are worried.
posted by Vatnesine at 11:43 AM on May 16, 2023 [1 favorite]

I don't think it will matter at all. And I just started my prep too. Cheers!
posted by dawkins_7 at 2:53 PM on May 16, 2023 [3 favorites]

IIRC warm water helps the PEG dissolve a little faster, but there's no chemical change to the substance. It will hit 98.6 degrees once it's down the hatch. =)
posted by JoeZydeco at 6:01 PM on May 16, 2023 [1 favorite]

It will clean you out. Stay near a bathroom.
posted by They sucked his brains out! at 10:31 PM on May 16, 2023 [1 favorite]

Best answer: I capped the jug so I could shake it up. The jug immediately expanded like it was going to burst, so I took the cap off to let air escape. I heard a fizzing sound.

All of that is expected behaviour from hot water in a partially sealed container. No process capable of ruining your laxative was involved.
posted by flabdablet at 1:34 AM on May 17, 2023 [2 favorites]

I think you will have your own answer to this question very shortly.
posted by cmm at 5:52 AM on May 17, 2023 [4 favorites]