Last updated: February 23, 2026
SUTAB is an FDA-approved oral tablet used for bowel preparation prior to colonoscopy. Its active ingredients include sodium sulfate, magnesium sulfate, and bisacodyl, which facilitate bowel cleansing. The following outlines the primary suppliers involved in manufacturing and distributing SUTAB.
Manufacturing and Original Supplier
Salix Pharmaceuticals developed and initially marketed SUTAB. It received FDA approval on December 3, 2018 (FDA, 2018). Salix Pharmaceuticals, a division of Bausch Health Companies, controls the proprietary rights and manufacturing processes.
Key Details:
- Manufacturer: Salix Pharmaceuticals (Bausch Health Companies)
- Approval date: December 3, 2018
- Formulation: Tablets containing sodium sulfate, magnesium sulfate, and bisacodyl
- Supply chain: Controlled primarily by Salix/Bausch Pharms
Distribution and Supply Partners
While Bausch Health retains manufacturing rights, distribution of SUTAB involves multiple partners, including:
- Wholesalers and Pharmacies: Major drug wholesalers such as McKesson, Cardinal Health, and AmerisourceBentech distribute SUTAB to retail chains and hospitals.
- Online Pharmacies: SUTAB is available through licensed online medication providers, which source directly from distribution networks.
Contract Manufacturers
Although specific contract manufacturers are not publicly disclosed, reputable contract manufacturing organizations (CMOs) are involved in producing SUTAB:
- Contract Manufacturing Organization (CMO): GMP-compliant facilities under strict regulatory oversight produce SUTAB tablets according to Bausch Health specifications.
Supply Chain Considerations
- Raw Material Suppliers: The active ingredients come from global chemical suppliers, with exact vendors unlisted publicly due to confidentiality agreements.
- Regulatory Oversight: Manufacturing sites are inspected regularly by FDA to ensure compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).
- Market Availability: As of 2023, SUTAB is distributed across the U.S. through authorized pharmaceutical distributors.
Market Competition and Alternative Suppliers
SUTAB faces competition from other bowel prep products like GoLYTELY, MoviPrep, and clonidine-based regimens. However, Bausch Health remains the sole supplier with FDA approval for this specific formulation.
Summary Table of Key Supplier Information
| Aspect |
Details |
| Developer/Original Supplier |
Salix Pharmaceuticals (Bausch Health) |
| FDA Approval Date |
December 3, 2018 |
| Formulation |
Sodium sulfate, magnesium sulfate, bisacodyl |
| Manufacturing |
Contracted GMP manufacturers (specific vendors undisclosed) |
| Distribution Partners |
McKesson, Cardinal Health, AmerisourceBentech, online pharmacies |
| Raw Material Vendors |
Confidential, global chemical suppliers |
Key Takeaways
- Bausch Health, through Salix Pharmaceuticals, is the sole original and primary supplier of SUTAB.
- Distribution involves major wholesalers and licensed online pharmacies.
- No public records specify exact contract manufacturers or raw material vendors.
- Market competition exists but does not affect the exclusive FDA approval holder.
FAQs
1. Who manufactures SUTAB?
Salix Pharmaceuticals, a division of Bausch Health, developed and holds FDA approval for SUTAB. Manufacturing is carried out by approved GMP contract manufacturers.
2. Are there alternative suppliers for SUTAB?
No. Bausch Health remains the sole approved supplier. Other bowel prep products are marketed by different companies.
3. How is SUTAB distributed?
Via major drug wholesalers, hospital supply networks, and licensed online pharmacies across the U.S.
4. What raw materials are used in SUTAB?
Active ingredients sourced from global chemical suppliers—specific vendors are confidential.
5. When was SUTAB approved by the FDA?
December 3, 2018.
References
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2018). FDA approves SUTAB, a new bowel prep for colonoscopy. FDA.gov.