Moviprep: Answering Your Top Questions About Colonoscopy Preparation
Preparing for a colonoscopy can feel daunting, and the bowel preparation is often the part people have the most questions about. If your doctor has prescribed Moviprep Original (4 Sachets), you’re likely wondering what to expect. A clean bowel is absolutely essential for a successful colonoscopy, allowing your doctor to clearly see the lining of your colon.
This article aims to answer your most common questions about Moviprep, helping you navigate the process with more confidence.
Understanding Moviprep
Let’s start with the basics of what Moviprep is and how it works.
What is the Moviprep?
Moviprep is a lemon-flavoured laxative solution that is used to cleanse your colon (large bowel) before a medical examination such as a colonoscopy or a barium enema. It works by causing watery bowel movements, effectively emptying your colon so that it is clean and ready for the procedure. Each treatment usually consists of two sachets (Sachet A and Sachet B) that are mixed together with water to make one litre of solution, and you typically take two litres in total as a split dose.
Is MoviPrep a strong laxative?
Yes, Moviprep is considered a strong and effective osmotic laxative. It’s specifically designed to thoroughly cleanse the bowel, which is necessary for a clear view during a colonoscopy. Its strength is why it’s a prescription or pharmacy-recommended item for this specific purpose.
Is Moviprep the same as Miralax?
No, Moviprep is not the same as Miralax, although both are osmotic laxatives. Miralax typically contains polyethylene glycol 3350 as its main active ingredient. Moviprep also contains polyethylene glycol 3350, but it includes other ingredients like sodium sulfate, sodium chloride, potassium chloride, sodium ascorbate, and ascorbic acid.
These additional electrolytes help maintain your body’s fluid and salt balance during the bowel cleansing process. The formulation and dosage instructions for Moviprep are specifically designed for complete bowel preparation.
The Moviprep Process: What to Expect
Knowing what will happen can ease a lot of anxiety.
How to empty bowels completely before a colonoscopy?
To empty your bowels completely before a colonoscopy, you’ll need to follow the bowel preparation instructions given by your doctor or clinic precisely. This usually involves:
- Following a specific low-fibre diet for a few days beforehand.
- Switching to a clear liquid diet the day before your procedure.
- Taking the prescribed bowel preparation medication, like Moviprep, exactly as directed. This often involves drinking the solution in divided doses over several hours.
Moviprep is designed to induce diarrhoea to clear out your colon.
Why is my MoviPrep not working after 1 hour?
The time it takes for Moviprep to start working can vary from person to person. While some people may experience bowel movements within an hour, for others it might take 2-3 hours, or even longer. Factors like your individual metabolism and whether you’ve eaten recently can affect this. If several hours have passed since your first dose and you haven’t had a bowel movement, or if you’re concerned, it’s best to contact your clinic or doctor for advice. Don’t take more than prescribed unless advised.
What does poo look like after Moviprep?
As Moviprep works, your stools will gradually change. Initially, they may be soft or loose, then progress to watery diarrhoea. Eventually, your output should become clear or a pale yellow, watery liquid, free of solid matter. This clear, watery output is the goal and indicates your bowel is becoming clean.
How do you know your bowel is empty after Moviprep?
You’ll know your bowel is likely empty and clean enough for the colonoscopy when your bowel movements are no longer solid or murky. The output should look like clear or pale yellow liquid, similar to urine. You should be able to see the bottom of the toilet bowl through the liquid. This is the key sign your preparation is complete.
How long after Moviprep will I stop pooping?
Bowel movements will usually continue for a few hours after you finish drinking the last dose of Moviprep. For most people, the frequent, urgent bowel movements will significantly slow down or stop within 2-4 hours after the final dose, but this can vary. You might still pass some watery stool or gas.
Will I be up all night on Moviprep?
It’s very likely you will be up for a significant portion of the night, especially after taking the second dose of Moviprep if your regimen is split between evening and the next morning. The medication is designed to induce frequent bowel movements. It’s best to prepare to be near a toilet and make yourself as comfortable as possible.
Can I go to sleep after MoviPrep?
You might be able to sleep in short intervals between bathroom visits, but deep, uninterrupted sleep is unlikely while the Moviprep is actively working. Once the bowel movements become less frequent (usually a few hours after the last dose), you should be able to get some rest.
Should I stay in the bathroom during a colonoscopy prep?
While you don’t need to live in the bathroom, you will need to be very close to one for several hours once Moviprep starts working. The urge to have a bowel movement can be sudden and strong. Set up a comfortable space nearby with entertainment, fluids, and anything else you might need.
What if I still have diarrhea on the morning of a colonoscopy?
Having some watery diarrhoea on the morning of your colonoscopy is often normal and expected, especially if you took your second dose of Moviprep that morning. The key is that the output is clear or pale yellow liquid. If you are still passing solid or very murky stool, or if you are concerned, contact the colonoscopy unit for advice as your bowel may not be adequately prepared.
Taking Moviprep: Tips for a Smoother Experience
The taste and volume can be challenging, but these tips might help.
Is one sachet of Moviprep enough?
No, one sachet of Moviprep (which refers to one pair of Sachet A and Sachet B mixed to make one litre) is typically not enough for a full bowel preparation. A standard Moviprep course usually involves consuming two litres of the prepared solution. This means using a total of two “Sachet A” and two “Sachet B” sachets, prepared as two separate one-litre doses. Always follow the specific instructions provided by your doctor or the product leaflet, as dosages can sometimes be adjusted based on individual circumstances.
Is it OK to drink Moviprep slowly?
Yes, it’s generally recommended to drink Moviprep steadily but not too quickly. The instructions usually suggest drinking each litre over 1-2 hours (e.g., a 250ml glass every 15-30 minutes). Drinking it too fast can increase nausea. Drinking too slowly might make the process take longer and could potentially reduce its effectiveness if spread out too much. Stick to the timeframe recommended in your instructions.
How do I make Moviprep more bearable?
Making Moviprep more bearable often comes down to managing the taste and the experience:
- Chill it: The solution is often more palatable when cold. Prepare it in advance and keep it in the fridge.
- Use a straw: This can help bypass some of your taste buds.
- Rinse your mouth: After drinking each glass, rinse your mouth with water or a clear, approved drink.
- Distraction: Watch TV, read a book, or listen to music to take your mind off it.
Can I mix Moviprep with Lemonade?
Generally, you should only mix Moviprep with water as directed. Adding lemonade or other flavourings (especially those with sugar, artificial sweeteners, or colour) could interfere with the preparation’s effectiveness or the clarity needed for the colonoscopy. Some clinics might allow clear, colourless cordials, but always check with your specific clinic or doctor before adding anything to Moviprep. The lemon flavour is already incorporated.
Can you add anything to MoviPrep to make it taste better?
As mentioned above, it’s best to avoid adding things directly to the Moviprep mixture unless explicitly approved by your clinic. Chilling the solution is the most common and safest recommendation. Some people find sucking on a hard, clear sweet (like a lemon drop, ensuring it’s not red or purple) between glasses of Moviprep helps, but spit it out before drinking more prep. Again, check with your clinic for their specific guidelines.
Does drinking extra water help colonoscopy prep?
Yes, drinking extra clear fluids (like water, clear broth, diluted fruit juice without pulp, but check your approved list) in addition to the Moviprep solution is highly encouraged and very important. This helps prevent dehydration, can make the prep work more effectively, and helps to continue flushing out your system. Your instructions will likely specify how much extra clear fluid to drink.
Dietary Guidelines for Moviprep Prep
What you eat (and don’t eat) is crucial.
What foods should you avoid while taking Moviprep?
The day before your colonoscopy, when you are taking Moviprep, you will typically be on a clear liquid diet only. This means NO solid foods. For a few days before you start Moviprep, you’ll usually be advised to follow a low-fibre diet, avoiding things like:
- Whole grains (brown bread, brown rice, oatmeal)
- Nuts and seeds
- Raw vegetables and fruits with skins or seeds
- Red meat
- Corn, peas, beans
How do you not starve the day before a colonoscopy?
While you will be on clear liquids, you can still consume calories and feel relatively satisfied. Focus on approved clear liquids like:
- Clear broths (chicken, beef, vegetable – no solids)
- Diluted fruit juices (apple, white grape – no pulp, avoid red/purple)
- Clear sports drinks (check for approved colours)
- Jelly (lemon, lime – no red/purple, no fruit pieces)
- Black tea or coffee (no milk or cream)
- Water, clear sodas (like lemonade, ginger ale)
Sipping these throughout the day can help manage hunger.
Can I drink coke before a colonoscopy in the UK?
Generally, cola (like Coke) is not recommended as part of a clear liquid diet for colonoscopy prep in the UK (and elsewhere). This is because its dark colour can stain the bowel lining, making it difficult for the doctor to see clearly during the colonoscopy. Stick to clear or very light-coloured beverages. Always follow the specific list of approved/disallowed drinks from your clinic.
Is cup a soup clear soup for colonoscopy?
Some types of “Cup a Soup” or similar instant broths can be suitable if they are genuinely clear once made and contain no solid pieces (like noodles, vegetables, or meat particles). A simple, clear chicken or vegetable bouillon would be acceptable. Avoid creamy soups or those with bits. If in doubt, opt for plain, strained broth.
Can I eat scrambled eggs the day before a colonoscopy?
No, you typically cannot eat scrambled eggs (or any solid food) the day before your colonoscopy when you are on the clear liquid diet and taking your bowel prep like Moviprep. Eggs are solid food and will interfere with the bowel cleansing. Low-fibre diets often end two days before, with the day immediately prior being clear liquids only.
Why no milk before colonoscopy?
Milk and dairy products are not allowed on a clear liquid diet because they are not clear. Milk is opaque and leaves a residue in the colon, which can obscure the view during the colonoscopy. This applies to milk in tea/coffee, cheese, yoghurt, etc.
Final Thoughts
Successfully completing your Moviprep bowel preparation is a vital step towards an effective colonoscopy. While it can be an uncomfortable experience, remember that it’s temporary and essential for your health check.
Always follow the specific instructions provided by your doctor or the colonoscopy clinic, as they may have slight variations based on your individual needs or their protocols. If you have any severe side effects or are unsure about any part of the process, don’t hesitate to contact them.
You can find Moviprep Original (4 Sachets) at My Pharmacy if prescribed or recommended by your healthcare provider.
You can find a wide range of non-prescription medicine in our Shop. This includes specialized categories such as Stomach and Bowel, where you can find treatments for conditions like Constipation.
Disclaimer: This blog article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. It is essential to follow the specific guidance and instructions provided by your doctor or the clinic performing your colonoscopy. If you have any health concerns or questions about your bowel preparation, consult with a healthcare professional. Product availability may vary.
Moviprep Sachets Original – 4 Sachets
Moviprep is a lemon-flavoured laxative in four sachets. There are two large sachets (‘sachet A’) and two small sachets (‘sachet B’). You need both for one treatment. Moviprep is intended for adults to clean the bowels so that they are ready for examination.
In stock
Moviprep Orange Sachets – 4 Sachets
Moviprep is a orange-flavoured laxative in four sachets. There are two large sachets (‘sachet A’) and two small sachets (‘sachet B’). You need both for one treatment. Moviprep is intended for adults to clean the bowels so that they are ready for examination.
Out of stock
