Important Note

The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.

ELECTROLYTE WITH PEG - ORAL

(ih-LECK-troh-lite with PEG)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Colyte, Golytely, Nulytely

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. Do not lie down for 30 minutes after taking this medication. 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.

Drug Interactions

Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription drugs you may use, especially of: quinidine, azole antifungals (e.g., itraconazole, ketoconazole), amphetamines, adrenaline-like drugs such as pseudoephedrine. Many cold-and-cold products contain decongestants such as pseudoephedrine. Check labels carefully and consult your pharmacist for more details. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Overdose

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.

Notes

This medication causes diarrhea within 30 minutes to one hour. Do not add any flavoring agents other than those that may be provided by the manufacturer. Do not add ice or other ingredients to solution.

Missed Dose

If you forget to take this when directed or remember too late to finish it, call your doctor for instructions.

Storage

Store solution in the refrigerator and use within 48 hours.