The field of colonic diagnostic and surgical procedures is hampered by the lack
of optimal means available to cleanse the colon. A compromise between convenient,
distasteful, solid or low volume, hyperosmotic solutions which cause considerable
fluid and electrolyte imbalances in patients and large volume, difficult to consume,
iso-osmotic solutions has had to be made heretofore. This invention describes a
low volume, hyper-osmotic solution consisting of sulfate salts with and with out
polyethylene glycol. Unlike prior art, this composition is useful for the cleansing
of the bowel and, in lower volumes, as a laxative, without producing clinically
significant changes in bodily function.