GENERIC NAME: ELECTROLYTE WITH PEG - ORAL (ih-LECK-troh-lite with PEG)
BRAND NAME(S): Colyte, Golytely, Nulytely
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage
USES: This medication is a laxative. It is used to clear the intestine before rectal or bowel examinations.
HOW TO USE: This medication is taken by mouth or may be given through a nose tube if necessary. The powder must be diluted using tap water as directed. Shake well to dissolve the powder completely. Drink one 8 ounce glassful of the solution every ten minutes until the total amount prescribed is taken. Rapid drinking of each glassful is preferred to drinking small amounts continuously. Do not take any oral medication within one hour of taking this or it may not be absorbed. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about rescheduling doses of other medications. Be sure to follow any special dietary restrictions or instructions given based on the type and timing of the procedure being done. Fasting is recommended for at least 3 to 4 hours before taking this. No foods except clear liquids are usually permitted after taking this.
SIDE EFFECTS: Nausea, bloating and stomach fullness are most common. Stomach cramps, vomiting and rectal irritation may also occur. These effects should be temporary. If any of these effect persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: persistent or severe nausea and vomiting, vomiting of blood, slowed heartbeat, muscle weakness. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this product, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: bowel/intestinal disease, throat (esophagus) disease, heart disease (e.g., abnormal heart rhythms, congestive heart failure), swallowing problems (e.g., history of aspiration), electrolyte imbalances (e.g., hyperkalemia), history of alcohol use, any allergies. Caution is advised when prescribing or using this drug in the elderly because they may be more sensitive to the drug's side effects. This product should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. This product may be excreted into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding. Children under 2 years of age may develop low blood sugar while using this product. Symptoms include fast heartbeat, sweating and agitation or hunger.
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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