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Sodium / Potassium / Magnesium Coupon - Sodium / Potassium / Magnesium 2 bottles of oral solution kit

sodium sulfate / potassium sulfate / magnesium sulfate

Generic Suprep
Used for Constipation, Colon Cleansing
Used for Constipation, Colon Cleansing

Suprep 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.

Last reviewed on February 24, 2025
basics-icon

What is Suprep?

What is Suprep used for?

How Suprep works

Suprep is an osmotic laxative that contains sodium sulfate, potassium sulfate, and magnesium sulfate. These salts aren't easily absorbed by your body, so they pull water into your intestines, causing bowel movements that help empty your colon before a procedure.

When does Suprep start working?
Time passed since treatment started:
MINUTES
HOURS
DAYS
WEEKS
MONTHS
Initial effect
Full effect

Drug Facts

Common BrandsSuprep Bowel Prep Kit
Drug ClassOsmotic laxative
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusNo lower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription only
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Avg retail price
$93.290
GoodRx discount
$93.29
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What are the side effects of Suprep?

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

Adults:
  • Overall discomfort (54%)
  • Bloating (40%)
  • Stomach pain (36%)
  • Nausea (36%)
  • Vomiting (8%)
Children: (more than 10%)
  • Nausea
  • Stomach pain
  • Bloating
  • Vomiting

Other Side Effects

  • Electrolyte imbalances

Serious Side Effects

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
  • Severe dehydration: vomiting, dizziness, tiredness, headache, urinating less, dry mouth
  • Heart rhythm problems: weakness, dizziness, fainting, chest pain, trouble breathing
  • Kidney problems: urinating less, swelling, tiredness, nausea, vomiting
  • Seizures
When do Suprep possible side effects begin and end?
Time passed since treatment started:
MINUTES
HOURS
DAYS
WEEKS
MONTHS
Stomach bloating
Stomach pain
Nausea or vomiting

Source: DailyMed

The following side effects have also been reported

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
  • Dehydration—increased thirst, dry mouth, feeling faint or lightheaded, headache, dark yellow or brown urine
  • Fast or irregular heartbeat
  • 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 these to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of Suprep

thumbs-up

Pros

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 older

thumbs-down

Cons

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 time

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Suprep

pharmacist
  • Follow all instructions carefully about what to eat or drink in the days before taking Suprep. If you're unsure, ask your care team.

    • The day before your colonoscopy, drink only clear liquids. Avoid alcohol, milk, or anything that's red or purple. Safe options include water, apple or orange juice (no pulp), coffee or tea (without creamer), chicken broth, and gelatin desserts without fruit or toppings.

      • Drink both doses of Suprep for a complete bowel prep. If you skip the second dose, your colon might not be fully cleaned, which could affect your colonoscopy results.

        • Stay near a restroom after taking Suprep since it will cause frequent bowel movements.

          • Call your prescriber right away if you have severe vomiting or signs of dehydration like dizziness, tiredness, or headaches after taking Suprep. Dehydration can cause electrolyte imbalances, which can lead to serious side effects like heart rhythm problems or seizures.

            Tips on how to prepare your Suprep dose

            • Each Suprep kit contains two doses, each in a separate bottle. You'll need to add cool water to each dose before drinking. Don't drink the medication directly from the bottle.

              • Taking the first dose: On the evening before your procedure, pour one bottle of Suprep into the provided mixing container. Add cool water to the 16-oz line (or 12-oz line for children) and mix. Drink the entire mixture. Then, refill the container with water to the 16-oz line and drink twice more over the next hour.

                • Taking the second dose: On the morning of your procedure, repeat the same steps as dose 1. Make sure you drink the final container of water at least 2 hours before your procedure.

                  faqs

                  Frequently asked questions about Suprep

                  Does the second dose of Suprep work faster?
                  Possibly. Suprep reaches its highest level in your body about 17 hours after the first dose and about 5 hours after the second dose. Be sure to finish all of the solution and additional water at least two hours before your colonoscopy for the best results.
                  How long does it take Suprep to work?
                  Bowel movements can start within an hour or so after taking Suprep. But for some people, it might take a few hours to work. Make sure to follow all instructions from your gastroenterologist and call the office if you have any questions.
                  Can castor oil be used with Suprep?
                  Talk to your prescriber before using castor oil with Suprep. While castor oil has been studied for bowel cleansing, you should check with your care team before taking any medications or fluids within 2 hours of Suprep. In general, it's best to avoid taking other laxatives with Suprep.
                  Do you have to wait 6 hours between Suprep doses?
                  Follow your prescriber’s timing instructions for taking Suprep. In most cases, the second dose should be taken 10 to 12 hours after the first dose. Avoid taking the doses too far apart or too close together because this can affect how well Suprep cleans your colon before your colonoscopy.
                  Can you mix Suprep with orange juice?
                  No. Only mix Suprep with cool drinking water. You might, however, drink clear liquids, like orange juice without pulp, the day before your colonoscopy if your prescriber says it's okay. On the day of the colonoscopy, drink only clear liquids until two hours before the procedure.
                  Where can I get Suprep?
                  Suprep is only available as a prescription from a healthcare professional. You'll be able to pick up the medication at your local pharmacy.
                  What does Suprep taste like?
                  Suprep has a berry flavor due to added flavoring. If you don’t like the taste or are having trouble finishing your dose, call your gastroenterologist. They might recommend a different bowel prep medication that might be easier for you to take.
                  Can you mix Suprep with Gatorade?
                  No, you shouldn't mix Suprep with Gatorade or any other flavored drinks. Suprep should only be mixed with cool water as directed. Mixing it with other liquids can affect how well it works or cause unwanted side effects. If you’re unsure, check with your prescriber.
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                  What are the risks and warnings for Suprep?

                  Suprep can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

                  risk-warning

                  Severe dehydration and electrolyte imbalance

                  • Risk factors: Severe vomiting | Taking other medications that can lead to dehydration or electrolyte imbalance | Gout

                    Drink plenty of fluids before, during, and after taking Suprep to stay hydrated. If you experience severe vomiting or signs of dehydration after taking it, your prescriber might check your lab tests to monitor your electrolytes, kidney function, and hydration levels. Electrolyte imbalances can cause serious problems, including irregular heartbeats, seizures, and kidney issues.

                    Suprep can also temporarily raise uric acid levels, which might trigger a gout flare-up. If you have gout or other uric acid-related conditions, talk to your prescriber before using this medication.

                    risk-warning

                    Heart rhythm problems

                    • Risk factors: History of heart rhythm problems | Recent heart attack | Unstable chest pain | Congestive heart failure | Cardiomyopathy

                      There have been rare cases of serious heart rhythm problems (arrhythmias) linked to osmotic laxatives like Suprep used for bowel prep. Your prescriber might check your heart with an electrocardiogram (ECG) before and after your colonoscopy if you are at higher risk for heart problems.

                      risk-warning

                      Seizures

                      • Risk factors: History of seizures | Benzodiazepine withdrawal | Alcohol withdrawal | Low sodium levels | Taking other medications that raise your risk for seizures

                        Some people have had seizures or fainted after taking Suprep, even if they never had seizures before. These cases were linked to electrolyte imbalances, like low sodium, potassium, calcium, or magnesium levels.

                        If you have a history of seizures or are at higher risk, your prescriber might need to monitor you closely. This includes people taking certain antidepressants, those withdrawing from alcohol or benzodiazepines, or those with low sodium levels. Let your prescriber know about any seizure history or medications you take before using Suprep.

                        risk-warning

                        Kidney problems

                        • Risk factors: History of kidney problems | Taking other medications that can harm the kidneys

                          If you have kidney problems or take medications that can harm the kidneys — such as diuretics, ACE inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers, or NSAIDs — talk to your prescriber before taking Suprep. These medications raise your risk for kidney injury. It’s important to drink plenty of fluids while taking Suprep to stay hydrated. Your prescriber might check your kidney function with lab tests before and after your colonoscopy to make sure your kidneys are working properly.

                          risk-warning

                          Colon problems

                          • Risk factors: Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) | Taking stimulant laxatives at the same time | Severe ulcerative colitis

                            Suprep and other osmotic laxatives might cause small ulcers in the colon. In rare cases, some people have developed a serious condition called ischemic colitis, which reduces blood flow to the colon and might require hospital treatment. Taking Suprep with stimulant laxatives can raise these risks, so talk to your prescriber before using any additional laxatives.

                            risk-warning

                            Serious choking

                            • Risk factors: Trouble swallowing | Poor gag reflex

                              If you have trouble swallowing or a poor gag reflex, you might be at risk of choking or inhaling (aspirating) Suprep. Let your prescriber know if you have any of these problems before starting this medication.

                              dosage

                              Suprep dosage forms

                              The average cost for 1 kit of 2 bottles of oral solution of Suprep is $122.73 with a free GoodRx coupon.0
                              kit
                              Kit
                              DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                              2 bottles of oral solution1 kit$122.73$122.73

                              Typical dosing for Suprep

                              Adults: Take two 6-oz doses of Suprep for a complete two-day regimen.

                              • Dose 1 - Evening before your colonoscopy

                                • Drink a mixture of one 6-oz bottle of Suprep and cool water added up to the 16-oz line in the provided mixing container.

                                • Over the next hour, drink two more 16-oz containers of water.

                              • Dose 2 - Morning of your colonoscopy

                                • Drink a mixture of one 6-oz bottle of Suprep and cool water added up to the 16-oz line in the provided mixing container.

                                • Over the next hour, drink two more 16-oz containers of water.

                              Children 12 years and older: Take two 4.5-oz doses of Suprep for a complete two-day regimen.

                              • Dose 1 - Evening before your colonoscopy

                                • Drink a mixture of one 4.5-oz bottle of Suprep and cool water added up to the 16-oz line in the provided mixing container.

                                • Over the next hour, drink two more 12-oz containers of water.

                              • Dose 2 - Morning of your colonoscopy

                                • Drink a mixture of one 4.5-oz bottle of Suprep and cool water added up to the 16-oz line in the provided mixing container.

                                • Over the next hour, drink two more 12-oz containers of water.

                              contraindications-icon

                              Suprep contraindications

                              Contraindications are specific health conditions or situations in which a person should not take a medication due to safety concerns. If you have any of the following conditions or if any of the following apply to you, let your healthcare provider know because Suprep will not be safe for you to take.
                              alternatives

                              What are alternatives to Suprep?

                              There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Suprep. Compare a few possible alternatives below.
                              Suprep
                              Used for:
                              $93.29 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                              Used for:
                              • Cleansing the colon to prepare for colonoscopy

                              $276.14 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                              Used for:
                              $12.46 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                              images

                              Suprep images

                              colorless - Sodium Sulfate / Potassium Sulfate / Magnesium Sulfate 17.5g-3.13g-1.6g / 177mL Oral Solution
                              This medicine is Colorless Kit.colorless - Sodium Sulfate / Potassium Sulfate / Magnesium Sulfate 17.5g-3.13g-1.6g / 177mL Oral Solution
                              colorless - Sodium Sulfate / Potassium Sulfate / Magnesium Sulfate 17.5g-3.13g-1.6g / 177mL Oral Solution
                              This medicine is Colorless Kit.colorless - Sodium Sulfate / Potassium Sulfate / Magnesium Sulfate 17.5g-3.13g-1.6g / 177mL Oral Solution
                              colorless - Sodium Sulfate / Potassium Sulfate / Magnesium Sulfate 17.5g-3.13g-1.6g / 177mL Oral Solution
                              This medicine is Colorless Kit.colorless - Sodium Sulfate / Potassium Sulfate / Magnesium Sulfate 17.5g-3.13g-1.6g / 177mL Oral Solution
                              colorless - Sodium Sulfate / Potassium Sulfate / Magnesium Sulfate 17.5g-3.13g-1.6g / 177mL Oral Solution
                              This medicine is Colorless Kit.colorless - Sodium Sulfate / Potassium Sulfate / Magnesium Sulfate 17.5g-3.13g-1.6g / 177mL Oral Solution

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                              References

                              Best studies we found

                              ASGE Standards of Practice Committee, et al. (2015). Bowel preparation before colonoscopy. Gastrointestinal Endoscopy.

                              Braintree Laboratories, Inc. (2020). SUPREP BOWEL PREP- sodium sulfate, potassium sulfate, magnesium sulfate solution, concentrate. DailyMed. 

                              Lehrer, J.K., et al. (2024). Gastrointestinal perforation. MedlinePlus.

                              View All References (4)
                              GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.
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