Fleet Phospho-Soda is a drug used most commonly as a bowel preparation before undergoing a colonoscopy, a diagnostic test. It is a laxative that works by bringing fluid to the bowel from other parts of the body. Therefore it is very important to stay hydrated while using Fleet Phospho-Soda. This laxative can be purchased over the counter at any pharmacy.
The American Cancer Society ranks colorectal cancer third in the U.S. in terms of cancer diagnoses among men and women. 102,900cases of colon and rectal cancer are expected to be diagnosed, in 2010. And, about 51,370 of them will die from the disease.
Bowel-Cleansers Get Black Box Warning
2008In December 2008 the FDA added a
black-box warning on Visicol and OsmoPrep, alerting consumers about the risk of acute phosphate nephropathy.
Oral Sodium Phosphates Solution (
OSPS), have been linked to numerous reports of people having kidney problems after using the solution. Acute phosphate nephropathy is the name of the condition most commonly linked to OSPS use.
Visicol, the tablet form of Fleet Phospho-Soda is also linked to the
kidney failure.
Those most at risk from acute phosphate
nephropathy have pre-existing kidney problems: those with heart failure, the elderly, and people taking certain kidney medications. You should inform your doctor if you are taking high blood pressure medication, arthritis medication, diuretics, or any other types of laxatives.
2006
The FDA issued an alert to patients and doctors about the dangers of using
Fleet Phospho-Soda. The correct dosage should always be used for safety reasons.
Consumer SafetyDiscuss any concerns that you have with your doctor. Vomiting, dizziness, and urinating less than normal are all signs that something may be wrong after taking an OSPS. Doctors may want to monitor your blood levels to check for signs of kidney damage.
See Also
- Miscellaneous Drugs: Overview