GaviLyte-H ratings & reviews

The brand name of the medication is gavilyte-h. It contains polyethylene glycol; electrolytes; bisacodyl, which belong to a group of medications known as laxatives. This combination is commonly used to clean the bowel before a medical procedure by increasing water absorption in the intestines, softening stool, and promoting bowel movement.

How should I use this medication?

Take this medication by mouth. Swallow the tablets whole with a glass of water. Do not crush or chew. Do not attempt to swallow the dry powder before mixing it with water. To take this medication, you must prepare a solution as indicated on the package label. Other than the flavor packs provided, do not add any additional ingredients or flavors to the solution. You may chill the solution before using it to improve its taste. Shake well before each dose. Your care team will tell you at what time to start this medication. Take exactly as directed. You will have the first bowel movement about 1 to 6 hours after you take the tablets. Once you start taking the solution, you will have frequent watery bowel movements.

You will need to follow a special diet before your procedure. Talk to your care team.

A special MedGuide will be given to you by the pharmacist with each prescription and refill. Be sure to read this information carefully each time.

Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

Talk to your care team if you are not able to complete the bowel preparation as advised.

Where should I keep my medication?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Protect from moisture. Once the solution has been prepared, store it in the refrigerator to improve its taste. Do not freeze. Get rid of any unused solution 48 hours after mixing.

To get rid of medications that are no longer needed or have expired:

• Take the medication to a medication take-back program. Check with your pharmacy or law enforcement to find a location.
• If you cannot return the medication, check the label or package insert to see if the medication should be thrown out in the garbage or flushed down the toilet. If you are not sure, ask your care team. If it is safe to put it in the trash, pour the medication out of the container. Mix the medication with cat litter, dirt, coffee grounds, or other unwanted substance. Seal the mixture in a bag or container. Put it in the trash.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

• Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
• Heart rhythm changes—fast or irregular heartbeat, dizziness, feeling faint or lightheaded, chest pain, trouble breathing
• Kidney injury—decrease in the amount of urine, swelling of the ankles, hands, or feet
• Seizures
• Sudden or severe stomach pain, bloody diarrhea, fever, nausea, vomiting

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

• Bloating
• Nausea
• Rectal pain, burning, or bleeding after use
• Stomach cramping
• Vomiting

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• Any chronic disease of the intestine, stomach, or throat
• Kidney disease
• Stomach pain or blockage
• An unusual or allergic reaction to polyethylene glycol, bisacodyl, other medications, dyes, or preservatives
• Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• Breast-feeding

What may interact with this medication?

• Antacids
• Diuretics
• Medications for blood pressure like enalapril, lisinopril, quinapril, and ramipril
• Medications for stomach problems like famotidine, nizatidine, ranitidine, esomeprazole, omeprazole, pantoprazole, and rabeprazole

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Do not take any other medication by mouth starting one hour before you take this medication. Talk to your care team about when to take your other medications.

Do not take this medication within 1 hour of taking antacids or eating dairy products like milk or yogurt. These items can destroy the protective coating on the tablets and increase stomach upset and cramps.

Do not inhale dust from the solution powder. This can make breathing difficult or may cause sneezing or an allergic-type reaction.

Bloating may occur before the first bowel movement. If your discomfort continues while you are drinking the solution, stop drinking the solution temporarily or drink each portion with longer spaces in between until your symptoms disappear.