Increased risk of adverse renal outcome following polyethylene glycol bowel preparation compared to sodium picosulfate

Several pharmacological options are available for bowel preparation prior to colonoscopy. Isosmotic and non-absorbable options such as polyethlyene glycol (PEG) with balanced electrolyte solution are poorly palatable, but because they do not cause fluid shifts into the bowel they are considered safe for patients with low glomerular filtration rates. Hyperosmotic options such as sodium picosulfate with magnesium oxide and citric acid are more palatable, but induce fluid shifts into the bowel that have been associated with hypotension and hyponatremia.