Clinical trial: sodium phosphate tablets are preferred and better tolerated by patients compared to polyethylene glycol solution plus bisacodyl tablets for bowel preparation.

Summary Background  Patient acceptance of bowel preparation can affect colon cancer screening compliance. Aim  To compare patient acceptance, preference and tolerability of 32-sodium phosphate tablets vs. 2L polyethylene glycol solution plus 4 bisacodyl tablets for bowel preparation. Methods  A prospective, randomized, investigator-blinded, multicentre trial was performed. Results were based on responses to a patient questionnaire. Results  411 patients (205 sodium phosphate; 206 polyethylene glycol plus bisacodyl) completed the study preparation and patient questionnaire prior to colonoscopy. More patients receiving sodium phosphate vs. polyethylene glycol plus bisacodyl found it easy to take (77% vs. 42%), reported it to be without taste (47% vs. 6%), found it easy to take with respect to volume of liquid prescribed (72% vs. 27%) and indicated they would take the same preparation again in the future (96% vs. 74%, P < 0.0001 for all). Fewer patients receiving sodium phosphate vs. polyethylene glycol plus bisacodyl had to take time off work or change ordinary activities to take the study preparation (18% vs. 52%, P < 0.0001). Nausea, vomiting, bloating and abdominal pain were reported less frequently with sodium phosphate (P < 0.0013). Conclusion  The 32-tablet sodium phosphate dosing regimen was easier to take and better tolerated, when compared to 2L polyethylene glycol plus bisacodyl tablets for bowel preparation.