A Xanax and/or a big, fat joint before going in helps! lol

Just kidding (maybe!). My last two doctors have used what they referred to as "a cocktail" with a pain relievers and Valium. Ask about what they use during the procedure. I have serious hemorrhoids so I know how badly it can hurt. (I once sat straight up during the look-see and screamed "HEMORRHOIDS!" They do not want a repeat.)

The easiest one I ever had was in the late afternoon. The prep was shorter as was the recuperation time.

Good luck!

I find the gatorade prep, while it takes longer, to be less traumatic, for lack of a better word, then the preps you get at the pharmacy. It's gatorade and mirlax if I'm not mistaken, which is basically the same as a prescribed prep, but for me, it just is less intense. I believe you incorporate some dulcolax as well over a day or two prior to the procedure. Your GI's office should have information on this if you're interested.

Also, I agree with TOG, discuss with your doc or the GI nurses the problems you've had in the past, and they may be able to prescribe you something to help with the discomfort. I've only ever woken up from my colonsocopies at the tail end of the procedures when they're pulling the tube out, and I'm usually so relaxed that it doesn't bother me, so definitely ask them about better sedation for you.

I cannot have a colonoscopy without propofol. I know Michael Jacksom gave it a bad name, but there is no hang over effect and you see out for the procedure. It's more of a pain in the ass for the center because they need an anastiogist, but your insurance will pay for it-'especially if you've been awake on other meds.

I had a colonoscopy two months ago. The doctor gave me a Miralax prep and this was the first time the prep went OK. I mixed it with Gatorade and I could hardly taste the prep. Yes finally something that worked. Ask your doctor for Miralax. Be firm with him or her and do not accept the GoLite prep. Request some medicine to help you relax too if you are to stressed out. Here is another tip eat only a soft food diet for a few days prior to your prep day. Foods like soups and eggs, Jello etc and Insure. Makes for a better prep day. The day of the colonoscopy is much easier than the prep day. The day of your colonoscopy your GI doctor will knock you out. They use a medicine where you do not go to sleep but you do not remember anything. I wish you the best.

I have had success with pico salax prep.
I've been lucky and the sedation works beautifully for me, i prefer to be unsedated for flex sigs so i can watch what's going on, but i want to be knocked right out for the full colonoscopy! When i have woken up during the scope, they are usually pretty quick to up the drugs and put me back under.