How Long Do You Poop After the Second Dose of Suprep?
Suprep is a common bowel preparation medication prescribed before colonoscopy procedures to make sure the colon is completely clean.
Understanding what to expect from Suprep, especially after the second dose, can help you prepare and manage the process more comfortably.
In today’s article, we provide complete information on how long you may experience bowel movements after taking the second dose of Suprep, along with tips for managing your bowel movements and knowing when to seek medical advice.
Understanding Suprep and its Effects
Suprep, also known as the Suprep Bowel Prep Kit, is a bowel preparation medication that helps to completely clean the colon before a colonoscopy procedure. It contains a combination of sodium sulfate, potassium sulfate, and magnesium sulfate.
The mixture of these components acts as osmotic laxatives which draws water into the colon to stimulate bowel movements. The main goal is to clear the intestines of all solid matter to allow the physician a clear view during the colonoscopy.
How Does It Work?
When you take Suprep, the solution works by increasing the amount of water in your intestines, which helps to stimulate bowel movements more effectively.
Each dose of Suprep typically causes multiple bowel movements which leads to watery and loose stools that help clear out your colon. It’s important to follow the precise instructions provided by your provider to ensure the best results and to minimize any potential side effects.
Common side effects
Suprep is generally safe for most people, but sometimes it may cause some side effects, especially after the second dose. These can include:
- Headache
- Chills
- Fatigue
- Nausea and vomiting
- Abdominal cramping or discomfort
- Dizziness
- Bloating or gas
These symptoms are usually mild and subside within a few hours of taking the second dose. But, if you experience severe or prolonged side effects, it’s important to contact your doctor.
What is the First or Second Dose of Suprep?
The Suprep Bowel Prep Kit is generally taken in two doses: one in the evening before the colonoscopy and the second dose on the morning of the procedure.
Each dose consists of a 6-ounce bottle of Suprep solution mixed with water to fill a 16-ounce container, followed by drinking an additional 32 ounces of water over the next hour.
After taking the first dose, most people begin to experience bowel movements within an hour or two. These movements are usually frequent and watery and continue until the colon is clear
The process ensures that the colon is thoroughly cleansed and prepared for the examination.
How Long Do I Poop After the Second Suprep Dose?
You will typically experience bowel movements within 30 minutes to an hour after taking the second dose of Suprep. This can last anywhere from 4 to 16 hours.
However, how long and intense it is can vary for each person, depending on factors like metabolism, hydration, and following diet rules before the procedure. According to WJG, bowel prep is not enough in about 25% of colonoscopies.
Most people will find that their bowel movements decrease significantly by the time they go to bed the night before the test, and they may not have diarrhea during the night. If you have not had at least two hours of sleep, or your bowel preparation was inadequate, consult your doctor.
Related: Does the Second Dose of Suprep Work Faster?
How Should My Poop Look During Colonoscopy Prep?
During the colonoscopy preparation, your stool should transition from solid to a clear or yellow liquid. Initially, bowel movements may be brown, but as the colon clears, the output should become lighter and more transparent.
The effects of Suprep medication can start 30 minutes to an hour after the first dose and can last up to 12 hours. Most people don’t have diarrhea after going to bed the night before their colonoscopy.
However, some may experience bowel movements during the sleep hours, and that’s normal. Just make sure to follow your doctor’s instructions and continue drinking plenty of clear liquids to stay hydrated.
Tips for Managing Bowel Movements During Colonoscopy Prep
There are several ways to make colonoscopy prep more comfortable. Here are some tips to help you manage your bowel movements effectively. Besides following your healthcare provider’s instructions, stay hydrated and be mindful of your food choices.
What Should I Eat or Avoid Before the Procedure?
Proper preparation is crucial for a successful colonoscopy, and this includes managing your diet and hydration levels in the days leading up to the procedure. Here’s some advice on what to eat and avoid:
Foods to Avoid:
- Solid foods, especially on the day before the procedure.
- High-fiber foods like fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and whole grains at least 3 days prior.
- Foods with red, blue, or purple dye which can discolor the colon.
- Fatty, greasy, or fried foods.
Good Foods to Eat:
- Clear liquids such as water, broth, coffee, or tea (without milk or cream), and clear juices.
- Gelatin that is not red or purple.
- Popsicles that are not red or purple.
- Clear, sports drinks to maintain electrolyte balance.
Staying Hydrated
It’s important to drink lots of clear fluids while getting ready for your colonoscopy. This helps keep you hydrated and makes sure your bowel movements are easy to handle.
To prevent nausea when taking your bowel prep medicine, chill it first and drink it through a straw. Vomiting the medication could lead to incomplete preparation.
Aim to drink at least 8-10 glasses of clear liquids daily, such as water, clear broth, electrolyte drinks, and clear juices. In particular, avoid anything containing purple, orange, or red dye, as these can look like blood and discolor the lining of your colon, affecting the accuracy of the test results.
Why Is It Taking So Long for My Suprep to Work?
If you are not experiencing bowel movements within one hour after taking the first dose of Suprep, there could be a few reasons why:
- You may not have followed the preparation instructions correctly.
- You may have consumed solid food or foods that are high in fiber too close to your procedure.
- You may be dehydrated and need to drink more liquids.
- Your body may not react as quickly to the Suprep medication.
- You may have had issues with effective bowel prep in the past.
If you’re still having trouble after trying these tips, talk to your doctor for more help. They might suggest different ways to prepare or change your dose.
What to Do if You’re Still Having Bowel Movements
If you’re still having bowel movements as the time for your colonoscopy approaches, there are a few steps you can take to get ready for the procedure.
- Continue drinking clear liquids to stay hydrated.
- Avoid eating solid foods, especially 6 hours before the procedure.
- Take a shower and clean the anal area with warm water. This can help prevent any irritation or discomfort during the exam.
If you’re still experiencing frequent bowel movements or your output isn’t pale yellow or clear liquid on the day of your colonoscopy, inform your doctor. They may need to reschedule the procedure or adjust your preparation instructions.
Sometimes, if a colonoscopy doesn’t work the first time, it can be tried again later the same day after taking more prep medicine. A study of 60 people showed that 80% of them could successfully have the procedure in the afternoon after taking extra laxatives.
In such cases, it’s essential to follow your doctor’s instructions and be patient with the process.
When to Seek Medical Advice
Side effects are usually mild and manageable, but it’s important to know when to ask for medical help. Call your doctor if you notice:
- Severe abdominal pain or cramping that doesn’t subside
- Intense vomiting or inability to keep liquids down
- Signs of dehydration like dizziness, dry mouth, or decreased urine output
- Bloody stools or severe rectal bleeding
- Persistent headache or confusion
- Allergic reactions such as difficulty breathing, itching, or swelling
Your doctor will tell you the best treatment based on your symptoms and medical history. If you have any worries during the colonoscopy prep, don’t hesitate to contact them.
Conclusion
In conclusion, preparing for a colonoscopy is a crucial step toward ensuring the procedure’s success and your overall health. By following your doctor’s instructions, adhering to the recommended dietary guidelines, staying hydrated, and monitoring your body’s responses, you can make the preparation process easier and more effective.
Don’t hesitate to reach out to your doctor for guidance if you encounter any issues or concerns. Proper preparation not only aids in achieving accurate results but also supports your well-being.
FAQ
Can I eat while taking Suprep?
No, you should not eat solid foods while taking Suprep. It’s important to follow a clear liquid diet as your doctor advised you to prepare your bowels. Consuming solid foods can interfere with the effectiveness of the prep and compromise the quality of your colonoscopy results. Stick to clear liquids like water, broth, tea (without milk or cream), and clear juices during the preparation period.
Is it normal to feel weak or dizzy during the bowel prep?
Yes, it can be normal to feel weak or dizzy during the bowel prep due to the lack of solid food and the fluid loss from frequent bowel movements. To minimize these symptoms, ensure you stay hydrated by drinking plenty of clear liquids, and consider taking breaks to rest. If you experience severe weakness or dizziness, contact your doctor immediately.
What to expect after the second dose of Suprep?
After taking the second dose of Suprep, you’ll likely have more bowel movements as your body clears out your colon. It is not uncommon to experience loose stools and frequent trips to the bathroom. Most people start to see clear, liquid stools, which shows that the preparation is effective. If you have any unusual symptoms or concerns, contact your doctor promptly.
Resources
- American Cancer Society. What is Colonoscopy
- Verywell Health. How Do I Know When Colonoscopy Prep Is Complete
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Care. How to Prepare for Your Colonoscopy using SUPREP® Bowel Prep Kit.
