Tricks to Drinking Golytely Colonoscopy Prep Solution

Understanding Golytely and Colonoscopy Preparation

A colonoscopy is a common screening procedure used to examine the large intestine for abnormalities or disease. While critical for detecting issues early, preparing for a colonoscopy can be challenging. One of the most widely prescribed preparation solutions is Golytely, a polyethylene glycol based laxative.

Golytely works by cleansing the bowels prior to your procedure, ensuring your doctor can see your colon clearly. The solution often receives a bad reputation for its salty taste and the laxative side effects. However, there are tricks to drinking golytely that can make the process more bearable.

Why Golytely is Prescribed

Before outlining the tricks to drinking golytely, it helps to understand why it may be prescribed over other prep solutions. Reasons for using Golytely include:

• It's is osmotically balanced, so it gently cleanses the bowel without dehydrating you or causing dangerous fluid/electrolyte shifts.
• It fully cleanses the bowel in around 2-4 hours, making it convenient for timing your prep.
• It's affordable and accessible due to being available as a generic. This makes it ideal for patients with no insurance coverage.

The main downside is the large volume you need to drink for it to be effective. However, there are ways to make this more manageable.

Tips for Drinking All the Golytely

The first challenge with Golytely is getting through the full gallon you'll need to drink for bowel cleansing. Tips to support completing the prep include:

1. Chill it first - serving it ice cold makes it more palatable.
2. Drink through a straw - this reduces contact with your taste buds.
3. Rinse your mouth with a mint mouthwash after each glass - this helps eliminate aftertaste.
4. Set a schedule - spacing 8oz glasses every 10-15 minutes makes it less daunting.
5. Combine with clear broths or juices - sipping some bone broth between glasses can help dilute the taste.

Managing the Side Effects

In addition to the large volume and salty taste, Golytely can cause some temporary but unpleasant side effects. Fortunately, there are tricks to drinking golytely that can help minimize the impact of:

Nausea

To reduce nausea:

• Eat light, low-fiber foods in the 48 hours prior to decrease gastrointestinal upset.
• Ginger ale can help settle nausea between glasses.
• Avoid laying down flat after drinking, remaining upright helps.

Bloating

To reduce bloating and cramping:

• Take slow, steady sips to prevent gulping air.
• Massage your abdomen gently to release gas buildup.
• Apply a heating pad to ease intestinal cramping.

Dehydration

To prevent dehydration:

• Space your glasses of Golytely with 8oz of clear fluids like water, apple juice, or bone broth.
• Avoid alcohol and coffee which can contribute to fluid loss.
• Suck on ice chips if you have difficulty drinking enough fluids.

Making Golytely More Palatable

Beyond managing side effects, there are additional tricks to drinking golytely focused solely on improving the taste. Options to make it more palatable include:

1. Add clear drink mixes like Crystal Light to infuse flavor.
2. Blend with ice and clear juices like white grape or lemonade.
3. Try sucking on strongly flavored hard candies like mints between glasses.
4. Use a large metal straw that reaches all the way to the bottom of the glass to reduce taste.

While it takes some effort, most patients find they can complete Golytely prep with minimal issues using these tricks to drinking golytely. Be sure to consult your prescribing physician if you have any concerns about using this solution prior to your colonoscopy.

Other Colonoscopy Preparations

While very effective, Golytely doesn't work for all patients. Alternative prescribe and over-the-counter options include:

• PEG Suprep Bowel Prep Kit - Contains sodium sulfate, potassium chloride, and ascorbic acid in addition to PEG for electrolyte balance.
• Miralax and Gatorade - This over-the-counter combo works similarly to Golytely.
• Clenpiq - Low volume prep in just 2 x 5oz servings.
• Suclear - Flavored PEG solution to improve palatability.

Discuss alternatives suitable for your needs with your gastroenterologist if you've struggled drinking Golytely in the past.

Preparing Mentally for Colonoscopy Prep

In addition to the physical tricks to drinking golytely, proper mental preparation can make the process less stressful. Useful mindset strategies include:

Have a Positive Attitude

Remind yourself completing the prep is necessary for them to thoroughly examine your colon and that this is an important screening for your health. Having a good attitude goes a long way.

Plan Engaging Distractions

Schedule pleasant distractions like funny movies or catch up calls with friends during your prep period. This prevents focusing solely on the Golytely.

Take Things Slowly

Trying to rush drinking a gallon of liquid laxative guarantees an unpleasant experience. Allow plenty of time to take steady sips and manage side effects.

Stay Near a Bathroom

Don't stray far from your bathroom during prep as the laxative effects can come on quite suddenly. This avoids emergencies.

While surviving Golytely colonoscopy prep takes effort, being informed arms you with the tools to develop effective coping tricks to drinking golytely. Listen to your body, utilize the above suggestions, and reward yourself when you've finished.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.