What is the procedure for taking medication before a gastrointestinal endoscopy?

Generally, the procedure for taking medication before a gastrointestinal endoscopy involves selecting medications as directed by a physician, adjusting diet, dissolving the medication, drinking an appropriate amount of water, and monitoring excretions.

1. Selecting medication as directed by a physician: Choose suitable bowel-cleansing medications based on medical advice, such as Compound Polyethylene Glycol Electrolyte Powder (III), Sodium Magnesium Potassium Oral Concentrated Solution, etc.

2. Adjusting diet: One to three days before the examination, gradually transition to a low-residue, low-fiber diet, such as rice, noodles, tofu, eggs, etc. Avoid consuming greasy, spicy, or hard-to-digest foods, such as fatty meats and chili peppers. Fasting and abstaining from water for 12–24 hours before the examination is required to ensure a clean bowel.

3. Dissolving the medication: Dissolve the medication in an appropriate amount of warm water, typically recommended to be around 1000–1500 ml. As directed by the physician, take the first dose about ten hours before the examination and finish drinking it within half an hour. About five hours after the first dose, take the second dose.

4. Drinking an appropriate amount of water: After taking the medication, drink an adequate amount of water to promote bowel cleansing. This helps flush out residual material in the intestines, preparing for the gastrointestinal endoscopy.

5. Monitoring excretions: After taking the medication, closely observe the excretions. When the stool becomes clear watery or light yellow with no fecal residue, it indicates effective bowel cleansing, and the gastrointestinal endoscopy can proceed.

The medication procedure before a gastrointestinal endoscopy must follow medical guidance. With thorough preparation and cooperation, the examination can proceed smoothly, aiding in accurate diagnosis.