Experience in the use of PICOPREP^® Combination Powder for Bowel preparation prior to colonoscopy

Abstract

Polyethylene glycol-based solutions are some of the most common bowel preparation regimens used prior to colonoscopy worldwide. However, poor tolerability may prevent complete ingestion of the preparation and may hinder a patient’s willingness to undergo repeat procedures. Sodium picosulfate/magnesium citrate (PICOPREP^®) has been used in Japan since August 2016. PICOPREP® is a low-volume bowel cleanser that is naturally orange-flavored and is expected to improve patient tolerability. Results from a questionnaire survey showed that 67.3% of patients feel that PICOPREP® is easy to take. However, 53.1% of nurses recognize PICOPREP^® requires longer times for cleansing, and 77.6% of doctors report impaired evaluation due to residual stool in the colon, which was actually only in limited amounts and could be suctioned. PICOPREP^® appears to be slightly inferior in terms of cleansing power ; however, the improvement in patient tolerability deserves recognition.