The recommended dose for adults is 4 liters of GoLYTELY for Oral Solution solution prior to gastrointestinal examination, as ingestion of this dose produces a satisfactory preparation in over 95% of patients. Ideally, the patient should fast for approximately three or four hours prior to GoLYTELY for Oral Solution administration, but in no case should solid food be given for at least two hours before the solution is given.
GoLYTELY for Oral Solution is usually administered orally, but may be given via nasogastric tube to patients who are unwilling or unable to drink the solution. Oral administration is at a rate of 240 mL (8 oz.) every 10 minutes, until 4 liters are consumed or the rectal effluent is clear. Rapid drinking of each portion is preferred to drinking small amounts continuously. Nasogastric tube administration is at the rate of 20-30 mL per minute (1.2-1.8 liters per hour). The first bowel movement should occur approximately one hour after the start of GoLYTELY for Oral Solution administration.
Various regimens have been used. One method is to schedule patients for examination in midmorning or later, allowing the patients three hours for drinking and an additional one hour period for complete bowel evacuation. Another method is to administer GoLYTELY for Oral Solution on the evening before the examination, particularly if the patient is to have a barium enema.