Generic Name and Brand Names
The generic name for Clenpiq is citric acid, magnesium oxide, and sodium picosulfate. It is also sold under the brand name Prepopik. Clenpiq belongs to the drug class of laxatives.
What is Clenpiq?
Clenpiq is a combination medicine used to clean the colon before a colonoscopy. It causes diarrhea to clear the inside of the colon, allowing for better visibility during the procedure. Clenpiq is intended for use by adults and children aged 9 years and older. It may also have other uses not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
Clenpiq can cause severe dehydration, leading to electrolyte imbalances, seizures, kidney failure, or abnormal heartbeats that can result in death. The risk of dehydration is higher in individuals with heart or kidney problems or those taking certain medications. If you experience vomiting and cannot drink enough water for your bowel prep, or if you have a headache, dizziness, or decreased urination, contact your doctor immediately.
Before Taking Clenpiq
Do not take Clenpiq if you are allergic to citric acid, magnesium oxide, or sodium picosulfate. Additionally, do not take Clenpiq if you have kidney disease, a bowel obstruction, ileus, colitis or toxic megacolon, a dilated intestine, a perforation of your intestines, or slow digestion. Inform your doctor if you have ever had any of these conditions or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
How to Take Clenpiq
Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Dilute the powder form of Clenpiq with 5 ounces of cold water before taking it. The oral solution (liquid) may be taken without adding water. Do not eat solid food once you start taking this medicine. Stop drinking all fluids at least 2 hours before the colonoscopy. Drink only clear liquids and avoid alcohol, milk, or any drink that is red or purple. Contact your doctor if you experience vomiting and cannot drink enough water for your bowel prep, or if you have a headache, dizziness, or decreased urination.
Missed Dose and Overdose
If you cannot drink the entire amount of medicine and liquids as instructed in time for your colonoscopy, contact your doctor. Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222 if you overdose on Clenpiq.
What to Avoid While Taking Clenpiq
Do not take other laxatives during your colon prep.
Clenpiq Side Effects
Seek emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction such as hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Call your doctor immediately if you experience a light-headed feeling, confusion, irregular heartbeats, a seizure, little or no urination, severe nausea or vomiting, painful bloating, severe stomach cramps, rectal bleeding, trouble swallowing, or trouble drinking liquids. Common side effects of Clenpiq may include stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, or headache.
Other Drugs That Affect Clenpiq
Clenpiq can make it harder for your body to absorb other medicines you take by mouth within 1 hour before your colon prep. If you take any of the following medicines, take them at least 2 hours before or not less than 6 hours after you take Clenpiq:
Inform your doctor about all your other medicines, including prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible drug interactions are listed here.
Conclusion
Clenpiq is a combination medicine used to clean the colon before a colonoscopy. It can cause severe dehydration, leading to electrolyte imbalances, seizures, kidney failure, or abnormal heartbeats that can result in death. Follow all instructions carefully and contact your doctor immediately if you experience any side effects or complications.