Compare Suprep vs. Magnesium citrate
Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Suprep (sodium sulfate/potassium sulfate/magnesium sulfate) and magnesium citrate are both used to help with bowel movements, but they have different uses and availability. Suprep is a prescription-only osmotic laxative used specifically for colon cleansing before a colonoscopy, while magnesium citrate is an over-the-counter saline laxative used for occasional constipation. Suprep requires a two-dose regimen taken the night before and the morning of the procedure, whereas magnesium citrate can produce a bowel movement within 30 minutes to 6 hours after a single dose. Suprep is not recommended for people with kidney problems due to the risk of fluid and electrolyte imbalance, and it can cause side effects like stomach discomfort and bloating. Magnesium citrate also should be avoided by those with kidney issues and can cause nausea and diarrhea. Suprep is generally considered likely to cause bloating side effects compared to some other bowel preps. Magnesium citrate is more accessible since it’s available without a prescription and comes in various flavors.
- SuprepMagnesium citrate
- SuprepMagnesium citrate
Summary of Suprep vs. Magnesium citrate
Summary for Osmotic laxativePrescription onlySuprep is a combination bowel prep kit used to clean out your colon before a colonoscopy. It works by causing diarrhea, which helps clear your intestines so that your gastroenterologist can see inside your colon more clearly. The medication is a berry-flavored liquid taken in two doses that must be prepared according to the instructions. You take the first dose on the night before your procedure and the second dose on the morning of your procedure. Common side effects include bloating, stomach pain, and nausea.
Summary for Saline laxativeMagnesium citrate is a oral laxative solution that can ease the occasional constipation. It's available over the counter (OTC) and can help produce a bowel movement in 30 minutes to 6 hours. Magnesium citrate might not be a safe option if you have kidney problems or electrolyte levels that are out of balance.
Indications of Suprep vs. Magnesium citrate
Indications forIndications for•Occasional constipationPros and Cons of Suprep vs. Magnesium citrate
Pros and Const for Osmotic laxativePros•Works quickly, within an hour or so•Requires less liquid to drink compared to other bowel prep products•Berry-flavored for taste•Brand-name medication is approved for adults and children 12 years and olderCons•Commonly causes nausea and vomiting•Might not be safe for people with kidney problems•Raises the risk of a gout attack in people with gout•Can interact with medications taken by mouth if taken close to your prep timePros and Const for Saline laxativePros•Works fast, produces a bowel movement within 30 minutes to 6 hours•Available OTC without a prescription•Comes in different flavors•Many generic products availableCons•Only for use with occasional constipation•Might not be a good option for people with kidney problems or those who need to limit magnesium or sodium intake•Can cause nausea and vomiting•Needs to be separated from other medicationsCommon Side Effects of Suprep vs. Magnesium citrate
Common Side Effects forAdults:
•Overall discomfort (54%)•Bloating (40%)•Stomach pain (36%)•Nausea (36%)•Vomiting (8%)Children: (more than 10%)
•Nausea•Stomach pain•Bloating•VomitingCommon Side Effects forWarnings of Suprep vs. Magnesium citrate
Common Side Effects for•Severe dehydration and electrolyte imbalance•Heart rhythm problems•Seizures•Kidney problems•Colon problems•Serious chokingCommon Side Effects for•Complete or partial blockage of intestines•Kidney and other health conditionsPrices with our coupons for Suprep vs. Magnesium citrate
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