Gastroenterology Procedure FAQs

• For a colonoscopy prep, how long does it take the laxative to work? 

• What if I have nausea or vomiting with the colonoscopy prep?

• What if I inadvertently took aspirin or NSAIDs (motrin, ibuprofen, naprosyn, aleve)?

• What if I have a viral infection, urinary tract infection, or menstrual period?

• Can I use the “pill” colonoscopy prep?

• After a procedure can I go home by myself?

• When will I be able to resume normal activity after the procedure?

• When will I be able to return to work after the procedure? 

• What medication is used for sedation during the procedure?

• Will I meet the physician doing the procedure prior to the procedure?

• What time should I arrive for my procedure?

• Do I have to take the third bottle of Magnesium Citrate for my colonoscopy preparation?

• What time will I be ready to leave after my procedure?

This varies anywhere from 30 minutes to 6 hours after taking the laxative. Do not be alarmed if you have not noticed any response to the laxative after several hours.

You may chill the prep in the refrigerator or put it on ice. You may dilute the prep in juice, ginger ale, or lemonade, for example. Drink slowly over 45 minutes.

This is usually OK but please call the office to discuss this with the physician doing the procedure.

These issues will not interfere with the colonoscopy or other procedure.

Sutab is an available pill based prep for colonoscopy. It requires ingestion of 24 pills: 12 capsules the evening prior to the procedure and 12 capsules 4-5 hours prior to the procedure. It is imperative that a large amount of clear fluids are ingested before, during, and after taking the preparation to assure adequate hydration.

• NO. If you receive any amount of sedation medication you will need a family member or friend to take you home. You may not drive, take public transportation, or a taxi alone immediately after the procedure and until the next day. You may not drive the day or evening of the procedure. Your ride must be available 30 minutes after being called that you are ready for discharge.

• Usually by the next day.

• By the next day after the procedure.

• We use a combination of rapidly acting intravenous sedatives. They work quickly to keep you comfortable and wear off quickly. You are typically ready for discharge 30-45 minutes after completion of the procedure.

• Yes. If you have not met the physician in the office, you will meet the physician in the endoscopy unit prior to the procedure.

• If your procedure is scheduled at Newton-Wellesley Hospital, you should arrive 45-60 minutes prior to your scheduled procedure time.

• If your procedure is scheduled at Boston Endoscopy Center, please arrive 45 minutes prior to your procedure time.

• YES. This is our most commonly asked question. The last bottle needs to be taken 4 to 5 hours prior to your procedure regardless of what time your procedure is scheduled.

• You should expect to be at the hospital for about 2 to 2 ½ hours from your arrival time.