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Sodium picosulfate + magnesium citrate

Parc de Salut Mar · FDA-approved active Small molecule

Sodium picosulfate acts as a stimulant laxative that increases intestinal motility, while magnesium citrate provides osmotic laxative effect to draw water into the bowel, together producing bowel evacuation.

Sodium picosulfate acts as a stimulant laxative that increases intestinal motility, while magnesium citrate provides osmotic laxative effect to draw water into the bowel, together producing bowel evacuation. Used for Bowel cleansing prior to colonoscopy, Bowel cleansing prior to radiological examination of the colon.

At a glance

Generic nameSodium picosulfate + magnesium citrate
Also known asCitrafleet®, PSCM
SponsorParc de Salut Mar
Drug classStimulant laxative + osmotic laxative combination
ModalitySmall molecule
Therapeutic areaGastroenterology
PhaseFDA-approved

Mechanism of action

Sodium picosulfate is a prodrug converted by colonic bacteria to bis-(p-hydroxyphenyl)-pyridyl-methane, which stimulates colonic nerves to increase peristalsis. Magnesium citrate is poorly absorbed and creates an osmotic gradient that retains water in the intestinal lumen, softening stool and promoting evacuation. The combination provides both mechanical stimulation and osmotic effect for rapid, complete bowel cleansing.

Approved indications

Common side effects

Key clinical trials

Primary sources

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SourceUsed for
ClinicalTrials.govTrial enrolment, design, endpoints, results

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