What is Gavilyte-C? Uses, warnings & side effects

How to take Gavilyte-C

• Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.

• It is best that you do not eat any solid food for 3 to 4 hours before you start using this medicine. You must not eat anything within 2 hours before starting. After you drink your first dose, do not eat anything until after you are finished with your test.

• You may drink water or clear liquids up until 2 hours before the time of the test, if your doctor says it is okay. Do not drink red or purple liquids.

• This medicine comes as a powder that you mix with water before you drink it. Do not swallow the powder directly. Some brands of this medicine also come with a packet of flavoring powder. You may use the medicine with or without the flavoring powder.

• To use:

  • Mix the powder with the right amount of lukewarm water. If you are using flavoring powder that came with the medicine, add it before you add the water. Do not add any extra flavorings to the medicine.

  • Shake the container well to completely mix the powder and water. Use the solution within 48 hours.

  • Drink 8 ounces (240 milliliters) of the mixed medicine about every 10 minutes until you finish all of the prepared solution or until your stool is clear and free of solid matter. It is best to drink it fast instead of sipping it.

  • You should have your first loose stool or mild diarrhea about 1 hour after you drink the medicine. This is how the medicine cleans out your bowels. You may have bloating or an upset stomach before the loose stools start.

  • If you cannot swallow the liquid, it can be given through a feeding tube.

• Drink extra fluids so you will urinate more often and help prevent kidney problems.

• This medicine should come with a Medication Guide. Ask your pharmacist for a copy if you do not have one.

• Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep the mixed solution in the refrigerator. Do not freeze. Throw away any unused liquid after 48 hours.

What to do if you miss a dose of Gavilyte-C

Gavilyte-C contraindications - Who shouldn't take Gavilyte-C?

• This medicine is not right for everyone. Do not use it if you had an allergic reaction to polyethylene glycol, potassium chloride, sodium bicarbonate, sodium chloride, or sodium sulfate, or if you have stomach or bowel problems (including bowel perforation, toxic megacolon, ileus, or problems with stomach emptying).

Gavilyte-C warnings

• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have kidney disease, heart disease (including heart failure, thickening of the heart), a recent heart attack, heart rhythm problems (including arrhythmia, prolonged QT), chest pain, electrolyte imbalance, stomach or bowel problems (including inflammatory bowel disease, ulcerative colitis), trouble swallowing, or a history of seizures.

• This medicine may cause the following problems:

  • Dehydration, including low blood pressure

  • Heart rhythm problems

  • Seizures

  • Bowel problems, including ulcers, ischemic colitis

• Your doctor will do lab tests at regular visits to check on the effects of this medicine. Keep all appointments.

• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Gavilyte-C interactions & what to avoid when taking Gavilyte-C

• Some medicines can affect how PEG electrolyte solution works. Tell your doctor if you are using any of the following:

  • Blood pressure medicine (including an ACE inhibitor, ARBs)

  • Diuretic (water pill)

  • Medicine to treat depression (including TCAs)

  • NSAIDs (including aspirin, celecoxib, diclofenac, ibuprofen, naproxen)

  • Other laxatives (including bisacodyl, sodium picosulfate)

• Do not take any medicine by mouth within 1 hour before you take PEG electrolyte solution.