Fleet Phospho-soda is an over-the-counter (OTC) laxative used to cleanse the bowels prior to certain medical procedures such as colonoscopy. It can cause kidney damage and kidney failure. After the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued an alert about the dangers of using Fleet Phospho-soda, C.B. Fleet Co., Inc., recalled its OTC products.
Fleet Phospho-soda Uses
Cleansing of the bowels, or colon cleanse, is necessary or recommended in preparation for some medical procedures including:
- Colonoscopy
- Endometriosis surgery
- Hysterectomy
- Intestinal procedures
- Colon surgery
- Some X-rays
Doctors sometimes recommend a colon cleanse as treatment for certain health problems or on a regular basis to remove toxins and maintain good health. There are several methods of colon cleansing including colon hydrotherapy, enemas, and laxatives. Fleet Phospho-soda is a laxative.
Danger of Fleet Phospho-soda
Fleet Phospho-soda contains sodium phosphate. Sodium phosphate can cause a dangerous rise in electrolytes. Phosphates can collect in the kidneys causing calcification, a condition called Acute Phosphate Nephropathy. This can cause permanent kidney damage and the need for dialysis for the rest of your life, or a kidney transplant. Fleet Phospho-soda can cause:
- Kidney failure
- Kidney damage
- Kidney disease
- Acute Phosphate Nephropathy
Patients with already impaired renal function are at a higher risk for developing kidney damage from using Fleet Phospho-soda. Mild to moderate kidney damage does not always manifest symptoms, so patients who have some renal impairment, and their doctors, may not be even aware of it and the fact that they are at risk for further damage when using the product.
Fleet Phospho-soda is a dangerous drug. There are other types of laxatives available that are just as effective and do not carry the risk of kidney damage.
Symptoms of Kidney Problems
If you have used Fleet Phospho-soda and experience any of the following symptoms, talk to your doctor right away:
- Difficult urination
- Irregular heart rate
- High blood pressure
- Fluid retention
- Bloating
- Fatigue
- Lower back pain
- Muscle spasms
- Seizures
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