COLONOSCOPY IS IMMENSELY VALUABLE as a diagnostic and colon cancer prevention tool. I had one, knowing that it enables the detection, diagnosis, and treatment of various gastrointestinal conditions. These conditions include colorectal cancer, polyps, and more. The colonoscopy prep can be challenging. Now we have a colonoscopy game changer: Better colonoscopy prep.
By providing a direct visual examination of the intestinal lining, colonoscopy allows healthcare professionals to identify early signs of disease and intervene promptly, potentially saving lives.
Furthermore, colonoscopy plays a crucial role in preventive medicine. The intervention enables the removal of precancerous polyps during the procedure, effectively reducing the risk of developing colorectal cancer.
The ability to detect and prevent serious conditions at an early stage makes colonoscopy a highly valuable procedure in maintaining gastrointestinal health and ensuring the overall well-being of individuals.
But…
If you have ever had to endure the colonoscopy prep drink, you would likely describe it as the worst part of the procedure. Enter Suflave, a lower-volume colonoscopy prep drink recently approved by the US Food and Administration (FDA).
Colonoscopy prep
Colonoscopy prep can present several challenges for individuals undergoing the procedure. One of the primary challenges is the strict dietary restrictions. There is also the need to consume a clear liquid diet for a specific period before the colonoscopy.
This preparation can be particularly difficult for individuals who are used to a regular diet and may need help to abstain from solid foods. The limited options of clear liquids can also make it monotonous and less satisfying, leading to feelings of hunger and discomfort.
Another challenge of colonoscopy prep is the requirement to drink a significant amount of laxative solution to cleanse the colon thoroughly.
The taste and texture of these solutions can be unpleasant, and consuming a large volume within a short period can be challenging for some individuals.
The laxative effects of these solutions can also cause frequent bowel movements and potential discomfort, making it an uncomfortable experience.
Colonoscopy Prep and Dehydration
Additionally, the need for thorough bowel cleansing through multiple rounds of bowel movements can lead to dehydration. The continuous flushing of fluids from the body can result in electrolyte imbalances and a feeling of weakness or fatigue.
Staying hydrated during the prep process is crucial but can be difficult due to the restrictions on liquid intake and frequent bowel movements.
Lastly, the physical and emotional stress associated with the anticipation of the colonoscopy itself can add to the challenges of the prep. Individuals may experience anxiety, nervousness, or fear about the procedure, which can exacerbate the discomfort they may already feel during the prep.
Lower-Volume Colonoscopy Prep Drink
Sebela Pharmaceuticals recently announced that Suflave, a new osmotic laxative, has received approval from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for colonoscopy preparation among adults.
This low-volume liquid solution has a lemon-lime flavor and comes in a carton comprising two bottles and two flavor packets.
Each bottle has the following ingredients: 178.7 grams (g) of polyethylene glycol 3350, 7.3 g of sodium sulfate, 1.12 g of potassium chloride, 0.9 g of magnesium sulfate, and 0.5 g of sodium chloride.
One dose consists of two bottles and two flavor packets. It would be best if you took both doses to ensure a complete colonoscopy preparation. Following each dose, consuming an additional 16 ounces of water is essential.
Does Suflave Work?
A clinical trial revealed that 94 percent of patients achieved successful bowel cleansing with Suflave.
Many patients reported that Suflave had a taste resembling a sports drink, with nearly four out of five describing it as “neutral to very pleasant.”
Additionally, nearly nine out of ten subjects found Suflave to be “tolerable to very easy” to consume and expressed their intention to request it for future colonoscopies. Eighty percent indicated that they would request Suflave in subsequent colonoscopies.
“Patients frequently struggle with the taste and volume of traditional bowel preparations — and fear related to the preparation can also negatively impact patient willingness to undergo follow-up colonoscopy if it is indicated.”
— Douglas K. Rex, MD, Distinguished Professor Emeritus at Indiana University School of Medicine.
Colonoscopy – Valuable for Screening and Diagnosis
Despite the challenges, it is important to remember that a well-prepared colonoscopy plays a crucial role in detecting and preventing colon cancer and other gastrointestinal conditions.
The potential health benefits and peace of mind from a successful and thorough examination outweigh the benefits of the procedure for many.
The more pleasant (to some, but not all) lemon-lime flavor of the new colonoscopy prep drink will drop hesitancy among screening holdouts. I am reluctant to label the new approach low volume; one consumes a total of 32 ounces.
Suflave Side Effects
Finally, the new approach is not without side effects. The most common adverse events include abdominal pain and distension, headache, nausea, and vomiting. We still have work to do. Fortunately, many alternative colon cancer screening tools are effective and less expensive.
Suflave will be available by prescription to patients in the United States in early August 2023.
Conflicts
I noticed that Dr. Douglas Rex, present at the Suflave announcement press conference, receives funding support from Sebela, the company that makes Suflave.
Colorectal Screening Guidelines
Let’s end with the colorectal cancer screening guidelines of the US Preventative Task Force (USPSTF):
- The USPSTF recommends screening for colorectal cancer in all adults aged 45 to 75 years. It is a grade A* recommendation for the 50 to 75 group and a grade B* for the 45 to 50 cohort.
- The USPSTF recommends that clinicians selectively offer screening for colorectal cancer in adults aged 76 to 85. Evidence indicates that the net benefit of screening all persons in this age group is small. In determining whether this service is appropriate in individual cases, patients and clinicians should consider the patient’s overall health, prior screening history, and preferences. This guidance is a grade C* recommendation: Offer or provide this service only if other considerations support the offering or providing the service in an individual patient.
Grade A. The USPSTF recommends the service. There is high certainty that the net benefit is substantial.
Grade B. The USPSTF recommends the service. There is high certainty that the net benefit is moderate, or there is moderate certainty that the net benefit is moderate to substantial.
Grade C. The USPSTF recommends selectively offering or providing this service to individual patients based on professional judgment and patient preferences. There is at least moderate certainty that the net benefit is small.
You can learn about alternative colorectal screening approaches here:
Colorectal Cancer: Screening
www.uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org
The information I provided in this blog is for educational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult a medical professional or healthcare provider for medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment. I am not liable for risks or issues associated with using or acting upon the information in this blog.
Thank you for reading “Better Colonoscopy Prep.”
