What are Sodium biphosphate and sodium phosphate (rectal)?
Sodium biphosphate and phosphorus phosphate both contain phosphorus. A combination medicine containing sodium biphosphate and sodium phosphate is used to treat constipation in children and adults and to cleanse the bowels before colon surgeries or endoscopy exams. This medication guide does not list all possible uses of sodium biphosphate or sodium phosphate.
Side effects of Sodium biphosphate and sodium phosphate (rectal)
If you experience any of the following signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction: difficulty breathing, hives, swelling of lips, face, tongue or throat and difficulty swallowing (among others). Seek medical assistance immediately!
The medicine can cause serious side effects. If you experience:
- No bowel movement for 30 minutes following use
- Rectal bleeding or bright-red bowel movements
- Dehydration symptoms: dizziness, nausea, thirst, and little or no urinating.
Side effects of sodium biphosphate or sodium phosphate include:
- Rectal discomfort.
There may be other side effects. For medical advice on side effects, call your doctor. The FDA can be contacted at 1-800-FDA-1088 to report side effects.
Similar/related drugs
Miralax, Erythromycin, Docusate, Colace, Bisacodyl, Senna, and Polyethylene Glycol (3350
Warnings
If you suffer from kidney disease, heart issues, constipation, nausea, or vomiting, then you should consult your doctor before using sodium biphosphate or sodium phosphate. This medicine may cause kidney and heart problems. These side effects are rare but potentially life-threatening.
Before you take this drug
If you are suffering from:
- Kidney disease
- Heart problems
- Constipation accompanied by stomach cramps, nausea, or vomiting
If:
- You've noticed a sudden shift in your bowel habits within the last 2 weeks.
- You've used laxatives within the last 7 days.
- You are following a low-salt diet.
- You are at least 55 years old.
Consult your doctor before taking this medication if you're pregnant or nursing. Never administer an adult-strength dialysis to a child under 12 years of age. Never use this medicine on a child under 2 years of age.
How to take Sodium biphosphate and sodium phosphate (rectal)?
Too much sodium biphosphate or sodium phosphate may cause life-threatening effects on your heart and kidneys. Follow the instructions on the label or those prescribed by your doctor. You should not swallow the rectal enema. Use it only in the rectum.
Use only the formula made specifically for children when using this medication with a child aged 2 to 11 years. Please read and comply with the directions for use provided with your medication. If you don't understand the instructions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
You should have a bowel motion within 1–5 minutes after using sodium biphosphate or sodium phosphate. Do not use more than one enema per 24-hour period. Use this medication only for 3 days. Consult your doctor if you use it for longer. Store away from heat and moisture at room temperature. Each disposable enema can only be used once.
What happens if I miss the dose?
There is no daily schedule for sodium biphosphate or sodium phosphate. Do not use more than one Enema in a 24-Hour period. If your symptoms don't improve after taking this medication, call your doctor.
What happens if I overdose?
Call the Poison Help Line at 1-800-222-1222 or seek emergency medical care, especially if someone has accidentally swallowed a medicine.
What should be avoided?
Do not use any other laxatives that contain sodium biphosphate or sodium phosphate unless you are told to by your doctor.
Interaction with other drug
Other drugs can affect sodium biphosphate or sodium phosphate. These include vitamins and herbal supplements. Inform your doctor of all the medicines you are taking and those that you stop or start using.
