Effects
Orally administered sodium picosulfate is generally used for thorough evacuation of the bowel, usually for patients who are preparing to undergo a colonoscopy. It works very quickly, so access to a toilet at all times is recommended. It starts off by making bowel movements looser and more frequent, but within an hour or so of taking it the patient should experience diarrhea.
The most common side effects of picosulfate are abdominal cramps and diarrhea.
The use of sodium picosulfate has also been associated with certain electrolyte disturbances, such as hyponatremia and hypokalemia. Patients are often required to drink large amounts of clear fluids to reestablish the electrolyte balance as well as rehydrate.
On July 16, 2012 the FDA approved Prepopik, a formulation containing sodium picosulfate, magnesium oxide, and citric acid, for use as a bowel cleanser in preparation for colonoscopy.
Read more about this topic: Sodium Picosulfate
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