Description
Indications
Clenpiq is a prescription medicine indicated for colon cleansing prior to colonoscopy in adult and pediatric patients aged nine years and above.
Clenpiq is categorized as a bowel prep medication consisting of three synergistic active constituents that facilitate the onset of watery diarrhea, aiding the removal of stool from the colon.
- Sodium picosulfate is a stimulant laxative that promotes colon peristalsis, thereby increasing the frequency of gut muscle contractions to facilitate defecation.
- Magnesium oxide and citric acid combine to form magnesium citrate in solution, an osmotic agent that promotes water retention in the gastrointestinal tract making it easier to pass stool.
Uses and Dosage
Prior to administering Clenpiq, carefully review its medication guide and patient information leaflet. Direct any questions or concerns to your physician or pharmacist.
Typical instructions and dietary restrictions while taking Clenpiq are listed here. If your physician has prescribed a different regimen, please follow their instructions accordingly.
Clenpiq comes in a powder form and must be diluted in 5 ounces of cold water before use.
Two doses of Clenpiq are needed for complete colonoscopy preparation and can be administered through a split-dose or day-before regimen.
Additional fluids must be consumed after every dose in both dosing regimens, and only clear fluids should be consumed from the start of Clenpiq treatment until after the colonoscopy.
If you encounter severe bloating or stomach pain after the initial dosage of this medication, wait until these symptoms subside before administering the second dose.
Fluid consumption should be stopped at least 2 hours before the colonoscopy.
Split-dose method:
- First dose: Take between 5:00 to 9:00 p.m. the night before your colonoscopy.
- Drink five 8-ounce (240 mL) clear liquid drinks within the next 5 hours after taking the first dose.
- Second dose: Take the next morning, about 5 hours before your colonoscopy is scheduled.
- Drink three 8-ounce clear liquid drinks within the next 5 hours after taking the second dose, finishing all drinks at least 2 hours before the colonoscopy.
Day-before method:
- First dose: Take between 4:00-6:00 p.m. the evening before the colonoscopy.
- Drink five 8-ounce clear liquid drinks within 5 hours of taking the first dose.
- Second dose: Take 6 hours after the first dose, between 10:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m.
- Drink three 8-ounce clear liquid drinks within 5 hours of taking the second dose
Expect multiple bowel movements after taking Clenpiq. Remain close to a toilet after your first dose until your colonoscopy appointment.
Side Effects
Side effects that may occur during treatment with Clenpiq are listed below. If any of them last or get worse, seek medical attention immediately.
Common Side Effects
- Frequent, very watery bowel movements
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Bloating
- Headache
- Stomach cramps
Serious Side Effects
- Severe dizziness
- Confusion
- Fainting
- Fast or irregular heartbeat
- Seizure
- Change in the amount of urine
- Severe or persistent stomach pain
- Bloody stools
- Rectal bleeding
Seek immediate medical attention if any of the above severe symptoms are experienced.
Allergic Reactions
Although rare, serious allergic reactions can occur while using Clenpiq. Get medical help immediately in the event of the following symptoms:
- Rash
- Itching or swelling of the face, tongue, or throat
- Severe dizziness
- Trouble breathing
Adverse reactions listed here are not the complete list. Consult your doctor if unlisted bothering side effects occur.
Cautions
Prior to taking Clenpiq, inform your doctor or pharmacist of any known allergies. Inactive ingredients in this medication may lead to allergic reactions or other complications, making it necessary to consult a pharmacist to obtain additional information.
Tell your doctor all other medications you are taking, including prescription and non-prescription, vitamins, supplements, and herbal products, to avoid drug interaction.
Discuss your medical history with your healthcare provider, especially of:
- Heart problems such as irregular heartbeat or heart attack
- Kidney problems
- Salt/mineral imbalances, such as low levels of sodium in the blood
- Seizures
- Stomach/intestinal problems such as gastric retention, blockage, ulcers, or ulcerative colitis
- Difficulty swallowing
By providing this information, you can help ensure safe and effective medication use and reduce the risk of potential complications.
During treatment with Clenpiq, solid foods, dairy products, and drinks colored red or purple should not be consumed. Alcohol and other laxatives should be avoided.
Oral medications should not be taken within one hour of starting Clenpiq.
If taking tetracycline or fluoroquinolone antibiotics, iron, digoxin, chlorpromazine, or penicillamine, take them at least 2 hours before and not less than 6 hours after administration of Clenpiq.