A blinded, randomized comparison of a novel, low-dose, triple regimen withFleet Phospho-soda: A study of colon cleanliness, speed and success of colonoscopy

Background and Study Aims: A clean colon is essential for an efficient exam ination. The aim of this study was to compare a novel low-dose, low volume triple regimen with Fleet Phospho-soda. Methods: A blinded, experienced colonoscopist examined 132 consecutive pati ents randomly allocated to receive either a triple regimen consisting of se nna syrup (sennoside B), Picolax (sodium picosulphate), and Klean Prep (pol yethylene glycol 3350), or Fleet Phospho-soda (sodium dihydrogen phosphate and disodium phosphate dodecahydrate). The colonoscopist recorded cleanline ss according to a scoring system (1-very clean to 4-solid stools), and time taken to reach the caecum. Results: In the triple regimen group (n = 81), 73% scored 1 or 2 compared w ith 57% in the Fleet Phospho-soda group (n = 51, p = 0.037 Mann-Whitney U-t est). Examination to caecum was achieved in 95% of the triple regimen group and 89% of the Fleet Phospho-soda group. Among those examined as far as th e caecum, the time to reach the caecum was 11 minutes (range 5-50) in the t riple regimen group compared with 16 minutes (range 5-65) in the Fleet Phos pho-soda group (p = 0.08, Mann-Whitney U-test), Patient tolerability was no t assessed in this study, Conclusions: This novel triple regimen produces a cleaner colon than Fleet Phospho-soda, is associated with a trend towards a quicker and more efficie nt colonic examination, and is also 30% cheaper per patient.