Plenvu

Description

Plenvu (polyethylene glycol 3350, sodium ascorbate, sodium sulfate, ascorbic acid, sodium chloride, and potassium chloride) is a prescription medication used for bowel cleansing before colonoscopy in adults. It's a low-volume bowel prep that is administered orally.

Directions

Plenvu is available as a powder to be mixed with water and consumed as a solution. The box contains two pouches, Pouch A and Pouch B. The first dose (Pouch A) is typically taken in the evening before your colonoscopy followed by the second dose (Pouch B) the next morning. Mix each pouch with water to make a 500 ml solution and consume over 30 minutes, followed by at least 500 ml of clear liquids. Follow your healthcare provider's instructions on diet and fluid intake before your procedure.

Ingredients

The active ingredients in Plenvu solution are polyethylene glycol 3350, sodium ascorbate, sodium sulfate, ascorbic acid, sodium chloride, and potassium chloride.

Contraindications

Tell your healthcare provider about all the medications you're currently taking and about your medical history. Do not take Plenvu if you have a gastrointestinal obstruction, gastric retention, bowel perforation, toxic colitis or megacolon, or if you are allergic to any of the ingredients in Plenvu.

Cautions

• Before you start taking Plenvu, please tell your healthcare provider:
• About all the medications you're currently taking, including over-the-counter drugs, prescription medications, and dietary supplements.
• If you have a history of kidney problems, heart problems, seizures, or if you have trouble swallowing.
• If you have phenylketonuria (PKU) as Plenvu contains aspartame.
• If you have Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency (G6PD). If you do, apply caution when using Plenvu.
• If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding. The effects of Plenvu on unborn babies and breastfed children are unknown.
• Plenvu can cause serious side effects, including serious loss of body fluid (dehydration) and changes in blood salts (electrolytes) in your blood. This could lead to abnormal heart rhythms, seizures, kidney problems, or death. If you have persistent vomiting or signs of dehydration such as dizziness, light-headedness, or urinating less than usual, stop taking Plenvu and contact your healthcare provider immediately.
• For patients with a history of cardiac arrhythmias, it is recommended to have ECGs before and after the colonoscopy. 
• Plenvu may cause mucosal ulcerations in patients with diagnosed or suspected inflammatory bowel disease. 
• Patients at risk of aspiration should take Plenvu under medical supervision.
• Plenvu may also cause allergic reactions. Seek medical attention immediately if you experience difficulty breathing, hives, swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
• Be aware that Plenvu can potentially interfere with the absorption of other drugs, including oral contraceptives, which may lead to a decrease in their efficacy.

Side Effects

The most common side effects of Plenvu include nausea, vomiting, dehydration, and abdominal pain. If you experience any serious or persistent side effects, contact your healthcare provider.

The Plenvu cost may vary depending on your pharmacy and insurance coverage. With a valid prescription, you can also buy Plenvu online here!

References: 

1. Plenvu Prescribing Information. Bridgewater, NJ: Salix Pharmaceuticals; 2021. 
2. Plenvu (polyethylene glycol 3350, sodium ascorbate, sodium sulfate, ascorbic acid, sodium chloride, and potassium chloride) Solution. Important Safety Information. Accessed July 22, 2023.

About Dr. Gerardo Sison (Page Author)

An honors graduate of the University of Florida, Dr. Sison started his pharmacy career in a community setting, extending his services to hospitals and clinics over time. He has also worked in medication therapy management, advising patients on proper medication use for their chronic health conditions. Read More....