Glossary
Barium enema
See
Double contrast barium enema (DCBE).
Biopsy
Small amount of tissue removed during colonoscopy for further examination.
Bowel prep
See
Colonoscopy prep.
Colon
Final 6-foot-long segment of the digestive tract that removes solid waste from the body; it is part of the large intestine.
Colon cancer
A cancer that develops in the bowel or rectum.
Learn more here.
Colon prep
See
Colonoscopy prep.
Colonoscope
A long, thin, flexible instrument connected to a camera and video display monitor used to visually examine the inside of the colon.
Colonoscopy
Procedure to examine the entire colon.
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Colonoscopy prep
Regimen prescribed by a physician to clean out the colon, usually used prior to a colonoscopy or other screening procedure.
Also known as a bowel prep, colonoscopy preparation, and colon prep.
Colonoscopy preparation
See
Colonoscopy prep.
Colorectal cancer
See
Colon cancer.
Double contrast barium enema (DCBE)
A colon cancer screening method that uses a liquid put into the colon and rectum using an enema (a tube inserted into the
rectum) and that enables healthcare providers to view a detailed outline of the colon and rectum using an x-ray. Also referred
to as a
barium enema.
Fecal occult blood test
A colon cancer screening method used to determine if blood is present in the stool.
Hydration
Drinking liquid to restore or maintain fluid balance; an essential component of a safe, effective colonoscopy prep.
PEG (polyethylene glycol) lavage
A colonoscopy prep that uses up to 4 liters of nonabsorbable liquids to create a plunger effect to push waste out of the colon.
Polyp
An abnormal tissue growth that can be found in the bowel. If not detected and removed, it can develop into cancer.
Rectum
The final section of the bowel, where waste is stored until the next bowel movement removes it from the body.
Sigmoidoscopy
Procedure to examine the lower portion of the colon and rectum.
Sodium phosphate solution
A colonoscopy prep that uses 2 to 3 glasses of salt solution plus additional liquids. The solution draws water into the
colon and flushes out the waste.
Sodium phosphate tablets
A colonoscopy prep that consists of virtually tasteless tablets, taken with any clear liquid. The sodium phosphate draws
water into the colon and flushes out waste.
Virtual colonoscopy
A relatively new colon cancer screening method that uses imaging machinery with a software technology that enables a view
inside the colon without needing to insert an instrument into the colon. Also called computerized topographic (CT)
colonography or magnetic resonance (MR) colonography.
Important Information About OsmoPrep
OsmoPrep Tablets are used to clean the colon before colonoscopy in adults aged 18 years or older. Do not
take OsmoPrep if you are allergic or hypersensitive to sodium phosphate salts or to any of the ingredients
in OsmoPrep. Before considering OsmoPrep, tell your doctor about all of your medical conditions, including
any heart conditions such as congestive heart failure, any kidney impairment such as electrolyte
disturbances, any abdominal problems such as bowel obstruction or motility issues, and any history of
seizures. Also tell your doctor about any medications that you are taking or if you may be pregnant.
The most common side effects in studies with OsmoPrep were abdominal bloating, abdominal pain, nausea,
and vomiting. Adequate hydration before, during, and after the use of OsmoPrep Tablets is recommended.
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch,
or call 1-800-FDA-1088. Consult with your physician to see if this product is right for you.
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