Miralax Colonoscopy Prep: An Affordable Over-the-Counter Guide
Table of Contents
Preparing for a colonoscopy can be stressful, and the high cost of prescription prep kits often adds to that anxiety. If you're looking for a more affordable option, an over-the-counter Miralax colonoscopy prep is a safe and effective alternative recommended by many doctors. This guide provides step-by-step instructions on how to use Miralax and its generics for a successful prep, tips for making the process easier, and how to save money without compromising your health.
Why is Prescription Colonoscopy Prep So Expensive?
Many patients are surprised to learn that prescription bowel prep kits like Suprep or Clenpiq can cost hundreds of dollars. These costs are often due to brand-name pricing and complex formulations. However, the primary goal of any prep is to completely cleanse the colon, and the active ingredient in Miralax, Polyethylene Glycol 3350, is a proven and highly effective osmotic laxative that can achieve the same result for a fraction of the price.
The Miralax Colonoscopy Prep: A Step-by-Step Guide
A successful prep is crucial for a clear and accurate colonoscopy. While you must always follow the specific instructions provided by your doctor, here is a general guide to a typical Miralax-based prep.
Step 1: Get Your Supplies (Shopping List)
You'll need to purchase a few items from the pharmacy or online:
- Polyethylene Glycol 3350 (Miralax or a generic): You will typically need a 238-gram bottle.
- A clear sports drink: A 64-ounce bottle of Gatorade, Powerade, or another electrolyte drink. Avoid anything red, purple, or blue.
- A stimulant laxative: Your doctor will likely recommend Bisacodyl (the active ingredient in Dulcolax) in tablet form.
Step 2: The Day Before Your Procedure
Your doctor will provide a specific timeline, which often looks like this:
- Morning: Mix the entire 238-gram bottle of Miralax powder into 64 ounces of your chosen clear sports drink until it is fully dissolved. Refrigerate the mixture.
- Afternoon (e.g., 3 PM): Take the prescribed number of Bisacodyl tablets.
- Evening (e.g., 5 PM): Begin drinking the Miralax solution. The standard instruction is to drink one 8-ounce glass every 15 minutes until half of the mixture (32 ounces) is gone.
- The Next Morning: A few hours before your procedure, you will drink the remaining 32 ounces of the Miralax solution, again drinking one 8-ounce glass every 15 minutes.
Can You Use Generic Miralax for Your Prep?
Yes, absolutely. Using a generic version of Miralax is a primary way to make your colonoscopy prep more affordable. Generic Polyethylene Glycol 3350 is medically identical to the brand name, containing the same active ingredient at the same strength. For a full breakdown of your options, see our Guide to Miralax Generic Alternatives.
When choosing a generic, it's helpful to know that not all are the same. You can learn more in our article explaining the difference between Premium vs. Value Generic Drugs.
- Premium Generic: We recommend GoodSense ClearLax.
- Value Generic: Rugby PEG 3350 is another trusted option.
Tips for an Easier Prep
The prep is often considered the most challenging part of a colonoscopy. Here are a few tips to make it more comfortable:
- Keep the Solution Cold: The Miralax mixture is much more palatable when it's well-chilled.
- Use a Straw: Drinking the solution with a straw can help it go down easier by bypassing some of your taste buds.
- Improve the Taste: While Miralax is mostly tasteless, some find the texture unpleasant. Learn some simple tricks in our guide on 10 Ways to Make Miralax Taste Better.
- Stay Near the Bathroom: Once the prep begins to work, you will need to use the restroom frequently and urgently.
Further Reading & Detailed Guides
For a deeper dive into specific topics, comparisons, and how-to guides, explore our full library of articles on Miralax and other laxatives:
- Guide to Miralax Generic Alternatives: Learn about all the cost-effective options, including premium and value brands like GoodSense and Rugby.
- How to Make Miralax Taste Better: Discover 10 easy tips and recipes for mixing Miralax with drinks, foods, and even making popsicles for kids.
- Miralax vs. Dulcolax: A complete comparison of the gentle osmotic laxative versus the fast-acting stimulant to help you choose the right one.
- Miralax vs. Colace: Understand the key differences and find out if it is safe and effective to take them together.
Products Mentioned for Miralax Colonoscopy Prep
GoodSense ClearLax Polyethylene Glycol 3350 Powder Osmotic Laxative - 17.9 oz | Miralax
$19.99
GoodSense® ClearLax Polyethylene Glycol 3350 Powder Osmotic Laxative – 17.9 oz | MiraLAX Compare to MiraLAX® active ingredient. GoodSense® ClearLax® provides effective, gentle relief from...… read more
GoodSense ClearLax Polyethylene Glycol 3350 Powder Osmotic Laxative - 17.9 oz | Miralax (2 Pack)
$33.99
GoodSense® ClearLax Polyethylene Glycol 3350 Powder Osmotic Laxative – 2 Pack (17.9 oz Each) | MiraLAX Compare to MiraLAX® active ingredient. GoodSense® ClearLax® provides gentle,...… read more
Rugby PEG Polyethylene Glycol 3350 Powder Osmotic Laxative - 17.9 oz | Miralax
$19.99
Rugby PEG 3350 Powder – 17.9 oz (30 Doses) | Compare to Miralax Rugby PEG 3350 Powder is a trusted, unflavored osmotic laxative that provides...… read more
Rugby PEG 3350 Osmotic Laxative Powder - 30 Doses | Miralax (2 Pack)
$34.98
Rugby PEG 3350 Polyethylene Glycol Osmotic Laxative Powder – 17.9 oz (2 Pack) | Compare to Miralax Double the supply, double the savings. The Rugby...… read more
About Xeteor
xeteor.com, founded in Las Vegas in 2018, is a trusted online guide and curated retailer for generic over-the-counter (OTC) medications. We operate like a family-owned business, thoughtfully selecting and offering a portfolio of brands that includes premium generics like GoodSense and Foster & Thrive, as well as trusted options such as Major Pharmaceuticals, Rugby Laboratories, Oncor Pharmaceuticals, and CareSens. Recognized as a Top Rated seller on Trustpilot, Google, eBay, Amazon, and Walmart, we're a trusted authority focused on building brand trust and earning consumer loyalty. Our mission is to empower you with reliable products and educational content, all backed by a U.S.-based team that offers real human support and secure, senior-preferred payment options.
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Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement or treatment.
FAQs
Can I use generic Miralax for my colonoscopy prep?
Yes, you can. Generic Polyethylene Glycol 3350 is medically identical to brand-name Miralax. It contains the same active ingredient at the same strength and is an effective, more affordable option for your prep. Always confirm with your doctor first.
What is the standard Miralax colonoscopy prep instruction?
While you must follow your doctor's specific orders, a common prep involves mixing a 238-gram bottle of Miralax into 64 ounces of a clear liquid (like Gatorade). This solution is typically split into two doses, one taken the evening before and one the morning of the procedure.
Why is Miralax used for colonoscopy prep instead of other laxatives?
Miralax (PEG 3350) is preferred for its gentle yet effective action. Unlike stimulant laxatives that can cause severe cramping, Miralax is an osmotic that works with your body's water to cleanse the colon thoroughly with fewer side effects, making the prep process more tolerable for most people.
Is it safe to use expired Miralax for my prep?
No, you should never use expired medication of any kind. The active ingredients may be less effective, which could lead to an incomplete prep and the need for a repeat procedure. Always check the expiration date on the bottle.
What are the common side effects of a Miralax prep?
The goal of the prep is to cause diarrhea, so that is the main effect. Other common side effects can include nausea, bloating, and abdominal cramping. These are usually temporary and resolve after the prep is complete.
How much Miralax is in a 238g bottle?
A 238-gram bottle of Miralax contains approximately 14 standard daily doses of 17 grams each. For a colonoscopy prep, you will typically use the entire bottle as directed by your doctor.
