What is Picosulfate used for?

Sodium picosulfate/magnesium oxide/citric acid solution is used to clean out the intestines before surgery or certain procedures (such as colonoscopy, X-rays). It is a laxative that works by drawing large amounts of water into your intestines and stimulating the colon. This causes watery bowel movements (diarrhea).

Is it safe to take sodium picosulfate daily?

As with all laxatives, sodium picosulfate should not be taken on a continuous daily basis for more than five days without investigating the cause of constipation. Long-term everyday use of stimulant laxatives may harm the intestinal function and should be avoided.

Is sodium picosulfate a good laxative?

Sodium picosulfate is a stimulant laxative. After metabolism in the colon it stimulates the mucosa thereby increasing the motility of the large intestine.

What is sodium picosulfate?

Sodium picosulfate (INN, also known as sodium picosulphate) is a contact stimulant laxative used as a treatment for constipation or to prepare the large bowel before colonoscopy or surgery.

How long can you take sodium picosulfate for constipation?

Sodium picosulfate should only be used to provide short-term relief from constipation. See a doctor if you are still constipated after five days of taking sodium picosulfate.

How is sodium picosulfate metabolised in the gut?

Sodium picosulfate is a prodrug. It has no significant direct physiological effect on the intestine; however, it is metabolised by gut bacteria into the active compound 4,4′-dihydroxydiphenyl-(2-pyridiyl)methane (DPM, BPHM).

Can you mix sodium picosulfate with magnesium oxide?

Sodium picosulfate, magnesium oxide, and anhydrous citric acid combination comes as a powder (Prepopik®) to mix with water and as a solution (liquid) (Clenpiq®) to take by mouth.