The Small Bowel Series is an x-ray examination that uses a barium sulfate contrast media to visualize the small intestines. This exam can follow an Upper G.I. Series and usually lasts 1 �-3 hours. This exam can last longer depending on how quickly the contrast moves through the intestine.

On the day before the examination:

• At 8:00 p.m. take three Dulcolax tablets or 2 tablespoons of Milk of Magnesia.
• Do not eat anything after 8:00 p.m. You may have liquids until midnight and then nothing until after the examination.

On the day of the examination:

• Do not eat or drink anything, chew gum or smoke until your examination has been completed. However, if your appointment is scheduled after 12:00 noon, you may drink up to one cup of clear liquid, coffee, or tea in the morning, but not later than 8:00 a.m.
• After the exam, to prevent constipation, we recommend that you drink large quantities of fluids and take a mild laxative (Milk of Magnesia, castor oil or Dulcolax) unless contraindicated by your doctor.