A new
sulfate-free
polyethylene glycol electrolyte lavage
solution (
SF-ELS) for colonoscopy was formulated to taste better and have less net water and
electrolyte secretion and absorption than a standard
polyethylene glycolelectrolyte lavage
solution (PEG-ELS). At two centers, 157 patients were prospectively randomized to receive
SF-ELS or PEG-ELS to assess adequacy of preparation, patient tolerance, weight changes, and various hematologic and biochemical parameters. Physician assessment of colon cleansing showed no difference between those patients receiving
SF-ELS (N = 74) or PEG-ELS (N = 78). Eighty-two percent of all preps were found to be "clinically acceptable." Subjects receiving
SF-ELS had significantly less fullness and
cramps, while PEG-ELS subjects reported less
nausea. There was no difference between groups for
vomiting, overall discomfort, or willingness to repeat the preparation received. Eighty percent of all patients would repeat the randomized cleansing methods. There were no clinically significant changes in weight or assessed laboratory parameters, with the exception of
potassium where PEG-ELS patients had an mean decrease of 0.22 mEq/liter vs. 0.01 mEq/liter for
SF-ELS (p less than or equal to 0.01). Patient taste questionnaires in those patients expressing a preference showed a preference for
SF-ELS (76.6%) over PEG-ELS (23.4%) (p less than or equal to 0.001). Thirty-two (22.5%) of total respondents indicated no preference. We conclude that
SF-ELS when compared with PEG-ELS is similarly a safe and effective method of colon cleansing for colonoscopy that is well tolerated. Patients prefer the taste of the new
solution.