Colonoscopy prep to be used w/ gallstones

[ARJ]

I was recently diagnosed with gallstones and there is a possibility that I have a stomach ulcer.  I am now taking Nexium and Bentyl.  Before I have surgery to remove my gall bladder, the dr. wants to do an endoscopy and a colonoscopy.  I am concerned that I won't be able to withstand the prep due to the effects it will have on my stomach and gall bladder.  Is there a certain prep that works better for these symptoms?  Would the Fleet phospha soda prep be better than the Nulytly?  Any advice on how to prepare for the two scope procedures in light of the above health issues would be appreciated.

[Kevin Pho, MD]

Hello - thanks for asking your question.

I agree with Erin's comments below.  Either the Phosphosoda or the Nulytely would be acceptable.  They work by different mechanisms, and patients may have different thresholds of tolerability to the medications.  

Other than the prep and the dietary restriction, there isn't anything specific that you should be doing before the procedures.  There should be conscious sedation with either procedure which should help you tolerate the procedures.  

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Thanks,
Kevin, M.D.

[GI.PA]

Either prep should not really cause you problems with your gallbladder or ulcer.  Either prep will cause some mild nausea, just take it slow.

Erin
GI.PA

[tessa0825]

Hello, I also have bad reflux disease and HAD gall stones at the time I had my last colonoscopy....I have since had my gallbladder removed, however, the prep for the colonoscopy did not bother me other than expected cramping....I used the phospho-soda prep with something else, I cant remember what it is called but it was very thick black stuff I drank the nite before and the phospho-soda the morning of...I cant speak for the other preps used for these procedures, but, I imagine they all work in a similar fashion....Good luck, Tessa