Golytely
Golytely Overview

Golytely (generic: polyethylene glycol electrolyte solution) is a prescription medication used to empty the colon. Golytely belongs to a group of drugs called osmotic laxatives, which work by causing watery diarrhea so that the stool can be emptied from the colon.

This medication comes in a powdered form that is mixed with water to form an oral (by mouth) solution. It should be taken after 3 or 4 hours of fasting (no food intake). In no case should solid food be eaten for at least 2 hours before taking Golytely.

Common side effects of Goltely include nausea, a feeling of fullness, and bloating.