A colonoscopy is the examination of the colon using a flexible tube known as a colonoscope. According to the National Institutes of Health, a colonoscopy is conducted to detect abnormalities in the colon such as cancerous growths and ulcers. Drugs used for a colonoscopy include medications to clean out the colon and medications for sedation during the procedure.
Stimulant Laxatives
According to the American Gastroenterology Association, cleaning the colon is a critical step of a colonoscopy. A stimulant laxative such as bisacodyl are required to be taken one day before the colonoscopy in order to remove stool from the colon. Patients should plan to stay close to a bathroom because stimulant laxatives cause frequent loose stools.
Polyethylene Glycol Solution
According to the National Institutes of Health, a polyethylene glycol electrolyte solution is prescribed to be taken the night before a colonoscopy. This solution is used to clean out the bowel before the colonoscopy. Examples of polyethylene solutions include GoLYTELY, NuLYTELY and Colyte. The solution tastes salty and may cause nausea and vomiting. Other side effects of polyethylene solution include diarrhea, stomach cramps, bloating and rectal irritation.
Visicol
According to Drugs.com, Visicol is a saline laxative used to clean out the bowel before a colonoscopy. Visicol is made of sodium phosphate and should not be used in patients who are allergic to phosphates. Common side effects of Visicol include diarrhea, gas, nausea, stomach cramps, bloating and vomiting. Visicol can also lead to serious kidney problems, especially in patients who already have heart and kidney diseases.
Versed
Drugs.com states that Versed is a benzodiazepine given to patients in order to help them relax and sleep during the colonoscopy. Versed produces amnesia, and most patients do not remember details about the procedure. Common side effects of Versed include anxiety, chest pain, drowsiness, irregular breathing and irregular heartbeat. Patients should not drive or operate machinery until after the day of the procedure because Versed causes drowsiness and lack of coordination. Patients should not drink alcohol or take medicines that slow down the nervous system for about 24 hours after receiving Versed.
Atropine
According to Drugs.com, atropine is anticholinergic drug that is given to patients during colonoscopy in order to dry up stomach secretions. This prevents stomach contents from entering the lungs and causing aspiration pneumonia. Common side effects of atropine include fast heart rate, blurred vision, confusion, decreased salivation, drowsiness, dilatation of pupils and headache. Atropine should not be used by patients with asthma, glaucoma and those with difficulties urinating as it could worsen symptoms of these conditions.
