If you’ve ever had a colonoscopy planned, you may already have experience with the supplanted product, known as the Suprep Bowel Prep Kit. It is a popular prescription remedy that is used to cleanse the colon prior to some medical procedures. Now, most patients have the same question when they’re getting ready to do their exam: Can Suprep be refrigerated? Here, we break down the ins and outs of this colonoscopy prep, including answers to common questions, safe storage tips, and advice from experts to make sure you are using Suprep the right way.
Understanding Suprep and Its Purpose
Suprep is a liquid laxative solution that is used to empty the colon. This is necessary for clear visibility during colonoscopy treatment. The kit includes two 6-ounce bottles of solution that you mix with water and drink. Its flavor – and potential side effects – are so bad that patients frequently seek ways, or gimmicks in the case of some doctors, to make the experience more tolerable – including chilling Suprep.
Can You Refrigerate Suprep? What the Instructions Say
You’re supposed store Suprep at room temperature of 68°F to 77°F (20°C–25°C), according to the manufacturer. But, once you add water it’s safe to throw the prepared mixture into the fridge to cool, if that makes it easier to drink. A lot of the time, those two compare and even recommend this to help with the nausea and better flavor.
The bottom line is that unopened Suprep bottles are supposed to be left at room temperature — but the diluted drink can be chilled briefly ahead of time.
Why Refrigerating Suprep May Help
Crying down a dose of Suprep isn’t so fun, either, because it tastes salty and sweet, and you have to choke down two eight-ounce glasses of the stuff. Chilling the mixture sends it down the hatch more easily, many patients report. The strong flavor is somewhat muted cold, and is less likely to trigger gag reflexes or queasiness. That is why doctors often advise to mix Suprep with cold water, and to drink it cold.
How Long Can You Keep Suprep in the Fridge?
It’s O.K. to cool it completely — it’s best if you use it up in the 24 hours after you mix it. Take your medicine exactly as your doctor has advised you about when to take each dose. While too long exposure inside the fridge may reduce its potency and safety.
Tip: Once the drink is made, pour it into a covered cup or container so it does not come into contact with other food on the front side or odors.
Safe Storage Tips for Suprep Bowel Prep Kit
How to make Suprep effective and safe to use:
- Store the closed bottles at room temperature.
- Keep the kit from heat, direct sunlight, and moisture.
- Do not freeze Suprep.
- After you mix it with water, refrigerate it only if you need it to taste cold.
- Never use the mixed solution for following applications, anytime you have any remaining Always throw away left over mixed solution not used as directed.
Read: Centrum vs One A Day: Which Multivitamin Should You Pick?
Alternatives to Refrigerating Suprep
And if you can’t stand the taste cold, talk to your provider. Some individuals drink the solution through a straw positioned well back on the tongue, drink it in small sips with breaks, or consume hard candy or gum after each swallow to help mask to flavor.
Staying well-hydrated is important, too — it’s (yawn) in the name of the prep, after all — so do guzzle lots of clear liquids as advised to stay hydrated and ensure the prep can do its, um, job.
Conclusion
In short Do not keep unopened Suprep in the fridge – store it at room temperature instead. But once it’s watered down, there is absolutely no harm (and sometimes even more charm) in chilling it to make it a more palatable sip. Just be sure to follow the timing instructions from your doctor carefully, sip within a recommended window of time and stay hydrated.
It’s important for you to be comfortable during bowel prep. If you have questions or concerns about how to store or use Suprep, talk with your doctor.
FAQs: Can Suprep Be Refrigerated?
Q: Can Suprep be frozen instead of refrigerated?
A: No, you should not freeze Suprep. The components of the solution can lose effectiveness when frozen.
Q: Is it safe to mix Suprep with juice or flavored drinks?
A: It is crucial to mix Suprep only with the specific amount of water as directed. Adding juice or other liquids can interfere with its performance and is not recommended.
Q: Can I prepare both doses of Suprep at once and refrigerate them?
A: No. Make each dose only when you are ready to drink it. Take this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
Q: What if I forget to refrigerate the mixed Suprep?
A: If you don’t refrigerate the diluted solution, the nonrefrigerated solution is still safe to drink if it’s freshly made and consumed within a few hours, as advised.
