Patient's Query
Hi doctor,
I am a 54-year-old man, and I am scheduled for my first colonoscopy next month. I have IBS with constipation. About three months ago, I took a herbal supplement that made the lower part of my abdomen hurt. The pain is off and on. Making dietary changes helped quite a bit. Also, I am currently taking AndroGel.
My gastroenterologist has prescribed Sutab for my colonoscopy. I am concerned because I read that Sutab is not the best medicine for inflammation in the bowels. And the side effects are nausea and a few other things. In your opinion, is Sutab the right colonoscopy preparation for me? Is there anything I can do to prepare in advance for my colonoscopy? Please give me your suggestions.
Hi,
Welcome to icliniq.com.
I went through your query and understood your concern.
Generally, there are many colon preparation regimens, and it is more a choice of the treating gastroenterologist. The experience with one laxative over the other for bowel cleansing is generally the deciding factor for choosing among various solutions. I usually recommend PEG (Polyethylene glycol 3350), Sodium picosulfate (a laxative) based regimen, Sodium phosphate (a saline laxative), and Magnesium oxide (dietary supplement) based regimen for my patients. I do not prescribe these tablets for colonoscopy preparation.
I have read about Sutab, which has now been used in various centers across western countries, and the data suggests good efficacy with minimum side effects. They work for a short duration of time, once put their impact on the gut. If you do not have any heart conditions or kidney problems, the Sutab generally seems to be a safe option. So I believe that it is safe for you. And your doctor must have reviewed your complete profile before recommending you the preparation regimen and colonoscopy.
Also, you have reached the age of 50 and above, so colonoscopy is recommended at this age, irrespective of the symptoms. But since you have symptoms of lower abdominal pain, the indication seems to be rightly taken by your doctor.
I hope this has helped you. Take care.
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