Abstract:Objective To investigate the effects of a continuous-dose administration versus different dosage regimens of polyethylene glycol electrolyte solution (PEG) taken in two doses with a 12-hour interval on bowel cleansing efficacy, with the goal of optimizing bowel preparation protocols and improving patient tolerability.Methods 232 patients who underwent painless colonoscopy and used PEG as a bowel cleanser from June 2024 to September 2024 were selected as study subjects. Participants were divided into three groups: the control group (3.00 L PEG continuous dose), experimental group A (0.75 L + 2.25 L PEG), and experimental group B (1.50 L + 1.50 L PEG). All patients underwent painless colonoscopy within 4~6 h after completing PEG intake. The interval between the two doses of PEG in group A and group B was 12 h. The bowel cleansing efficacy was assessed by using the Boston bowel preparation scale (BBPS), and the rates of colon polyp detection, adverse reactions, sleep duration, and tolerability were recorded.Results There were no significant statistical differences in BBPS scores and colon polyp detection rates among the three groups (P > 0.05). Experimental group B experienced the least adverse reactions, followed by experimental group A, while the control group reported the most significant adverse reactions (P < 0.05). The timing of PEG administration did not have a significant impact on sleep duration among the three groups (P > 0.05). Patients in experimental group B showed good tolerability to PEG and were willing to accept this bowel preparation regimen, followed by group A, while the control group exhibited the poorest tolerability, with significant statistical differences among the three groups (P < 0.05).Conclusion The continuous administration and divided administration of PEG have no significant impact on the effectiveness of intestinal cleansing and the detection rate of colonic polyps. However, the divided PEG regimen with a 12 h interval results in fewer adverse reactions and better tolerance, especially the optimal regimen of taking 1.50 L PEG in two doses with a 12 h interval.