Patient Guides: Endoscopy & Colonoscopy Preparation

Preparing for an upper GI endoscopy

• Do not eat for 6–8 hours before the procedure. Small sips of water are usually allowed up to 2 hours before.
• Tell us if you take blood thinners (e.g. aspirin, clopidogrel, warfarin, apixaban), diabetes medicines or insulin — some may need to be adjusted.
• Bring previous reports and a list of medicines.
• If you receive sedation, bring an adult companion and do not drive for the rest of the day.

Preparing for a colonoscopy

3 days before

• Start a low-fibre diet: avoid seeds, whole grains, raw vegetables, fruit with skin, and nuts.
• Stop iron tablets unless advised otherwise.

The day before

• Light breakfast, then clear liquids only: water, clear soup, coconut water, clear juice without pulp, black tea.
• Take the bowel preparation solution exactly as prescribed, usually split between the evening before and the morning of the test.
• Keep drinking clear fluids to stay hydrated.

The morning of the test

• Finish the second dose of preparation as instructed.
• Your stool should be clear or pale yellow liquid. If it is still brown or contains particles, call the clinic.

Preparing for a FibroScan

• Avoid food for about 3 hours before the test.
• Wear clothing that allows access to the right side of your abdomen.