Safety and efficacy of two reduced dosing regimens of sodium phosphate tablets for preparation prior to colonoscopy.
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the safety and efficacy of two reduced dosing regimens of sodium phosphate tablets (Visicol, InKine Pharmaceutical Co. Inc., Blue Bell, PA, USA) for colon cleansing prior to colonoscopy.


METHODS
In a randomized, multicentre, endoscopist-blinded clinical study, adults undergoing colonoscopy received either 28 tablets (42 g) or 32 tablets (48 g) of sodium phosphate for colon cleansing. The endoscopist used a validated four-point scale to rate the overall quality of colon cleansing, as well as cleansing in the ascending colon. Adverse events were collected and evaluated.


RESULTS
The quality of overall colon cleansing was 'excellent' or 'good' in 84% or more of both groups, with no significant difference between the two doses. No patient had a preparation rated as 'inadequate' or required a repeat procedure. All patients were able to complete the assigned dose of tablets, and there were no deaths, serious adverse events or dropouts from the study.


CONCLUSIONS
A reduced tablet regimen for sodium phosphate tablets, using either 28 or 32 tablets, is well tolerated and effective for colon cleansing prior to colonoscopy.
Rex
D K
DK
Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA. drex@iupui.edu
Chasen
R
R
Pochapin
M B
MB
D002400:Cathartics / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000494:pharmacology; D003113:Colonoscopy; D003672:Defecation / Q000187:drug effects; D004334:Drug Administration Schedule; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010710:Phosphates / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000494:pharmacology
D002400:Cathartics; D010710:Phosphates; C018279:sodium phosphate