What are the main uses of Fleet Enema. How does Fleet Enema work to relieve constipation. What are the potential side effects of using Fleet Enema. When should you avoid using Fleet Enema. How to properly administer Fleet Enema for optimal results.

Understanding Fleet Enema: A Comprehensive Guide

Fleet Enema is a combination medicine containing sodium biphosphate and sodium phosphate, used primarily for treating constipation and cleansing the bowel before medical procedures. This rectal medication works by drawing water into the colon, softening stool and promoting bowel movements. While generally safe when used as directed, it’s crucial to understand its proper use, potential side effects, and precautions.

The Primary Uses of Fleet Enema

Fleet Enema serves several important medical purposes:

• Treating constipation in adults and children
• Cleansing the bowel before colon surgery
• Preparing the intestines for x-rays or endoscopy examinations

How quickly does Fleet Enema work? Typically, it causes a bowel movement within 1 to 5 minutes after administration. This rapid action makes it effective for immediate relief of constipation and thorough bowel cleansing before medical procedures.

Proper Administration of Fleet Enema

To ensure safe and effective use of Fleet Enema, follow these guidelines:

1. Use exactly as directed on the label or as prescribed by your doctor
2. Administer rectally only – never take by mouth
3. For children 2 to 11 years old, use only formulas specifically designed for children
4. Do not use more than one enema in a 24-hour period
5. If no results occur within 30 minutes, consult your doctor before using another dose

Is there a specific position for administering Fleet Enema? While the package instructions should be followed, generally, lying on your left side with knees bent is recommended for optimal administration and retention of the enema solution.

Potential Side Effects and Risks

While Fleet Enema is generally safe when used as directed, it can cause side effects in some individuals:

• Rectal discomfort
• Nausea
• Abdominal cramps
• Dizziness
• Dehydration symptoms (in rare cases)

In rare instances, more serious side effects may occur. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• No bowel movement within 30 minutes after use
• Rectal bleeding or bright red bowel movements
• Severe dehydration symptoms (excessive thirst, little or no urination)
• Signs of an allergic reaction (hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat)

Can Fleet Enema cause electrolyte imbalances? Yes, excessive use or improper administration can lead to electrolyte disturbances, particularly in elderly individuals or those with kidney problems. This underscores the importance of using the product as directed and consulting a healthcare provider if you have any underlying health conditions.

Precautions and Contraindications

Certain individuals should avoid using Fleet Enema or use it only under close medical supervision:

• Those with kidney disease
• Individuals with heart problems
• People experiencing constipation with stomach cramps, nausea, or vomiting
• Children under 2 years old
• Pregnant or breastfeeding women (without doctor’s approval)

Additionally, consult a healthcare provider before use if:

• You’ve had a sudden change in bowel habits lasting 2 weeks or longer
• You’ve used any laxative within the past 7 days
• You’re on a low-salt diet
• You’re 55 years or older

Why is age a factor in using Fleet Enema? Older adults may be more sensitive to the effects of Fleet Enema and at higher risk for electrolyte imbalances and dehydration. Therefore, they should use this product with caution and under medical supervision.

Interactions with Other Medications

Fleet Enema can interact with various medications, potentially affecting their efficacy or increasing the risk of side effects. It’s crucial to inform your healthcare provider about all medications you’re taking, including:

• Prescription drugs
• Over-the-counter medicines
• Vitamins
• Herbal supplements

Particular caution should be exercised when using Fleet Enema alongside:

• Other laxatives
• Diuretics
• Heart medications
• Antibiotics

Can Fleet Enema affect the absorption of oral medications? Yes, it can potentially interfere with the absorption of oral medications taken within a short time frame. It’s advisable to consult your healthcare provider about the timing of Fleet Enema use in relation to your other medications.

Proper Storage and Disposal

To maintain the efficacy and safety of Fleet Enema:

• Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat
• Keep out of reach of children
• Use each disposable enema only once
• Dispose of used enemas properly

How long can Fleet Enema be stored? While the exact shelf life may vary, generally, unopened Fleet Enema can be stored for up to three years when kept at room temperature. Always check the expiration date before use and discard any expired product.

Alternatives to Fleet Enema

While Fleet Enema can be effective for constipation relief and bowel cleansing, it’s not the only option available. Some alternatives include:

• Oral laxatives (e.g., Miralax, Dulcolax)
• Stool softeners
• Fiber supplements
• Lifestyle changes (increased water intake, dietary fiber, regular exercise)
• Other types of enemas (e.g., mineral oil enemas, coffee enemas)

Is Fleet Enema more effective than oral laxatives? The effectiveness can vary depending on the individual and the specific situation. Fleet Enema typically works faster than oral laxatives but may be more invasive. Your healthcare provider can help determine the most appropriate treatment for your specific needs.

In conclusion, Fleet Enema can be an effective solution for constipation and bowel cleansing when used properly. However, it’s crucial to follow the instructions carefully, be aware of potential side effects, and consult with a healthcare provider if you have any concerns or underlying health conditions. Remember, while constipation is common, persistent changes in bowel habits should always be evaluated by a medical professional to rule out more serious conditions.

Fleet Enema rectal Uses, Side Effects & Warnings

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Generic name: sodium biphosphate and sodium phosphate (rectal) [ SOE-dee-um-bye-FOS-fate-and-SOE-dee-um-FOS-fate ]
Brand names: Disposable Enema, Fleet Enema
Drug class: Laxatives

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Jun 6, 2023. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is rectal Fleet Enema?

Fleet Enema are forms of phosphorus.

Fleet Enema is a combination medicine used in adults and children to treat constipation and to clean the bowel before colon surgery, x-rays, or endoscopy examinations.

Fleet Enema may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Warnings

You should not use Fleet Enema without a doctor’s advice if you have kidney disease, heart problems, or constipation with stomach cramps, nausea, or vomiting.

Using too much of this medicine can cause rare but life-threatening side effects on your kidneys and heart.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use this medicine without a doctor’s advice if you have:

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if this medicine is safe to use if:

• you’ve had a sudden change in bowel habits during the past 2 weeks or longer;

• you’ve used any laxative within the past 7 days;

• you are on a low-salt diet; or

• you are 55 or older.

Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Never use an adult-strength enema in a child younger than 12 years old. Do not use this medicine in a child younger than 2 years old.

How should I use rectal Fleet Enema?

Using too much of Fleet Enema can cause rare but life-threatening side effects on your kidneys and heart.

Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor.

Do not take the rectal enema by mouth. It is for use only in your rectum.

When using this medicine in a child 2 to 11 years old, use only a formula that is specially made for children.

Read and carefully follow any Instructions for Use provided with your medicine. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you do not understand these instructions.

Fleet Enema should cause you to have a bowel movement within 1 to 5 minutes.

Do not use more than 1 enema in any 24-hour period. If you do not get any results within 30 minutes after using this medicine, call your doctor before using another dose.

Do not use this medicine for longer than 3 days without medical advice.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Each disposable enema is for one use only.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Fleet Enema does not have a daily dosing schedule. Do not use more than 1 enema in any 24-hour period. Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after using this medicine.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222, especially if anyone has accidentally swallowed the medicine.

What should I avoid while taking rectal Fleet Enema?

Avoid using any other laxatives with Fleet Enema, unless your doctor tells you to.

Rectal Fleet Enema side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

The medicine may cause serious side effects. Stop using the medicine and call your doctor at once if you have:

• no bowel movement within 30 minutes after use;

• rectal bleeding or bright red bowel movements; or

• dehydration symptoms–dizziness, vomiting, thirst, little or no urinating.

Common side effects of Fleet Enema may include:

• rectal discomfort.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other drugs will affect rectal Fleet Enema?

Other drugs may affect Fleet Enema, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all your current medicines and any medicine you start or stop using.

Frequently asked questions

• Fleet Enema – What is the difference between constipation and fecal impaction?

More about Fleet Enema (sodium biphosphate / sodium phosphate)

• Check interactions
• Compare alternatives
• Pricing & coupons
• Reviews (102)
• Side effects
• Dosage information
• During pregnancy
• Support group
• Drug class: laxatives
• En español

Patient resources

Other brands

OsmoPrep, Fleet Phospho Soda, Disposable Enema, Visicol

Professional resources

• Prescribing Information

Related treatment guides

• Bowel Preparation
• Constipation

Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

Copyright 1996-2023 Cerner Multum, Inc. Version: 3.01.

Fleet Enema Rectal: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing

Uses

This medication may be used to relieve occasional constipation. However, when treating constipation, you should use milder products (such as stool softeners, bulk-forming laxatives) whenever possible. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other treatment options. Your doctor may also prescribe this product (usually along with other products) to clean stool from the intestines before surgery or certain bowel procedures (such as colonoscopy, radiography). Use it only as directed by your doctor.Sodium phosphate is a saline laxative that is thought to work by increasing fluid in the small intestine. It usually causes a bowel movement after 1 to 5 minutes. Do not use this medication in children younger than 2 years of age.

How to use Fleet Enema 19 Gram-7 Gram/118 Ml

This product is for rectal use only. Follow all directions on the product package. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist. Since your bowel movements can be very large/watery, drink plenty of clear liquids so that you do not become dehydrated.

Wash your hands before and after using this product. Remove the protective shield from the enema. Lie on your left side with knee bent. Or if you find it more comfortable, you may kneel, then lower your head and chest forward until the left side of your face is resting on a flat surface with your left arm folded comfortably. With steady pressure, gently insert enema tip into the rectum with a slight side-to-side movement, pointing the tip toward the navel. Do not force the enema tip into the rectum because you could hurt yourself. Squeeze the bottle until the recommended amount of the drug is inside the rectum. You do not need to empty the bottle completely because it has more liquid than needed. Remove the bottle tip from the rectum. Stay in position for 1 to 5 minutes until you feel a strong urge to have a bowel movement.

If your doctor has directed you to use this product before surgery or a bowel procedure, your doctor should tell you how long before the surgery/procedure you should use this product. Follow your doctor’s directions closely. After using the medication, drink plenty of clear liquids as directed by your doctor. Doing so will help prevent serious side effects (such as kidney problems, dehydration). Talk with your doctor about types of liquids you can drink before your procedure.

The dosage is based on your age, medical condition, and response to treatment. Do not use more of this medication than directed, use this medication more often than once in 24 hours, or use this medication for more than 3 days unless directed by your doctor. Also, do not use any other laxative products while using this product unless directed by your doctor. Doing so may increase your risk for serious side effects.

This medication may cause a condition known as laxative dependence, especially if you use it regularly for a long time. In such cases, your bowel may stop working normally and you may have ongoing constipation. For most people with occasional constipation, a bulk-forming laxative (such as psyllium) or a stool softener (such as docusate) is a better and safer product. To prevent laxative dependence, consult your doctor if you need to use this medication or other laxative products for more than 7 days.

Tell your doctor right away if the enema tip causes rectal bleeding/pain, if you do not have a bowel movement within 30 minutes of using the product, if you have symptoms of dehydration (see Side Effects section), or if you think you may have a serious medical problem.

Side Effects

Mild abdominal discomfort/cramps or gas may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

If your doctor has directed you to use this product, remember that your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this product do not have serious side effects.

Diarrhea that doesn’t stop may result in dehydration. This may cause serious side effects to the kidneys and heart. Contact your doctor promptly if you notice any symptoms of dehydration, such as unusual dry mouth/increased thirst, lack of tears, dizziness/lightheadedness, or pale/wrinkled skin.

Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: stomach/abdominal pain that is severe or doesn’t go away, diarrhea that doesn’t stop, signs of kidney problems (such as change in the amount of urine), bloody stools, rectal bleeding, mental/mood changes (such as confusion, unusual drowsiness), muscle weakness/spasm, swelling of the hands/ankles/feet.

Get medical help right away if you have any very serious side effects, including: slow/irregular/fast heartbeat, seizures.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

In the US – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.

In Canada – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Precautions

Before using sodium phosphate, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: dehydration, high/low levels of certain minerals in the blood (such as potassium, calcium, sodium, phosphate), kidney disease, current stomach/abdominal symptoms (such as nausea/vomiting that doesn’t stop, pain, cramping), bowel problems (such as blockage, ulcerative colitis, hemorrhoids), laxative use for constipation in the past week, heart disease (such as heart failure, irregular heartbeat), liver disease, sodium-restricted diet.

Consult your doctor before using this product if you have had a sudden change in bowel habits lasting more than 2 weeks or if you need to use a laxative daily for more than 1 week. These could be symptoms of a serious medical problem.

Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).

Young children may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug, especially dehydration and kidney problems.

Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug, especially dehydration and kidney problems.

During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

It is unknown if this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Interactions

Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor’s approval.

Some products that may interact with this drug include: other drugs that may affect the kidneys (including ACE inhibitors such as lisinopril, ARBs such as valsartan, diuretics/”water pills” such as furosemide/hydrochlorothiazide, NSAIDs such as ibuprofen/naproxen).

The watery bowel movements from sodium phosphate may cause your body to absorb less of your regular medicines and get less benefit from them. Consult your doctor or pharmacist about how to reduce this effect.

Does Fleet Enema 19 Gram-7 Gram/118 Ml interact with other drugs you are taking?

Enter your medication into the WebMD interaction checker

Overdose

This medicine may be harmful if swallowed. If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center. Symptoms of overdose may include: muscle weakness, fast/slow/irregular heartbeat, mental/mood changes (such as confusion), change in the amount of urine.

Lab and/or medical tests (such as kidney function, blood mineral levels) may be done while you are using this medication. Keep all medical and lab appointments. Consult your doctor for more details.

To maintain normal bowel habits, it is important to drink plenty of fluids (four to six 8-ounce glasses daily), eat foods high in fiber, and exercise regularly.

Not applicable.

Refer to storage information printed on the package. If you have any questions about storage, ask your pharmacist. Do not freeze. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medications away from children and pets.

Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.

Images

Fleet Enema 19 gram-7 gram/118 mL

Color: Shape: Imprint:

This medicine is a enema

Fleet Enema 19 gram-7 gram/118 mL

Color: Shape: Imprint:

This medicine is a enema

Fleet Enema 19 gram-7 gram/118 mL

Color: Shape: Imprint:

This medicine is a enema

Fleet Enema 19 gram-7 gram/118 mL

Color: Shape: Imprint:

This medicine is a enema

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Selected from data included with permission and copyrighted by First Databank, Inc. This copyrighted material has been downloaded from a licensed data provider and is not for distribution, except as may be authorized by the applicable terms of use.

CONDITIONS OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.

Fleet Enema: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions and Pictures of Tablets

• Generic Name: Mineral Oil

The display and use of drug information on this site is subject to the express terms of use. By continuing to view drug information, you agree to be bound by these Terms of Use.

IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT contain all possible information about this product. This information does not guarantee that this product is safe, effective or suitable for you. This information does not constitute individual medical advice and does not replace the advice of your healthcare professional. Always ask your healthcare professional for complete information about this product and your specific medical needs.

This medicine can be used to relieve occasional constipation. However, when treating constipation, milder products (eg, stool softeners, bulking laxatives) should be used whenever possible. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other treatment options. Your doctor may also prescribe this product (usually along with other products) to clear stool before surgery or certain bowel procedures (such as colonoscopy, x-rays). Use it only as directed by your doctor. Sodium phosphate is a saline laxative that is thought to work by increasing fluid in the small intestine. It usually causes a bowel movement in 1–5 minutes. Do not use this medication in children younger than 2 years of age.

This product is for rectal use only. Follow all directions on the product packaging. If you have questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist. Since your stools can be very large/watery, drink plenty of clear fluids to avoid losing too much water (dehydration). Wash your hands before and after using this product. Remove the protective shield from the enema. Lie on your left side with your knees bent. Or, if you’re more comfortable, you can kneel and then lower your head and chest forward until the left side of your face is flat and your left arm is comfortably folded. With constant pressure, gently insert the tip of the enema into the rectum with light side-to-side movements, aiming the tip towards the navel. Do not force the tip of the enema into the rectum because you may injure yourself. Squeeze the vial until the recommended amount of the drug enters the rectum. You don’t need to completely empty the bottle because it contains more liquid than necessary. Remove the tip of the vial from the rectum. Stay in this position for 1 to 5 minutes until you feel a strong urge to have a bowel movement. If your doctor has advised you to use this product before your bowel surgery or procedure, he or she should tell you how long before your surgery/procedure you should use this product. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully. Drink plenty of clear liquids after using the medicine, as directed by your doctor. This will help prevent serious side effects (eg kidney problems, dehydration). Talk to your doctor about the types of fluids you can drink before your procedure. The dosage depends on your age, medical condition and response to treatment. Do not use this medicine more than directed, use this medicine more than once every 24 hours, or use this medicine for more than 3 days unless directed by your doctor. Also, do not use any other laxatives while using this product unless directed by your doctor. This may increase the risk of serious side effects. This medicine may cause a condition known as laxative dependence, especially if you use it regularly for a long time. In such cases, your bowels may stop working properly and you may become permanently constipated. For most people with intermittent constipation, a bulking laxative (such as psyllium) or a stool softener (such as docusate) is better and safer. To prevent laxative addiction, check with your doctor if you need to use this medicine or other laxative products for more than 7 days. Tell your doctor right away if the enema nozzle is causing rectal bleeding/pain if you haven’t had a bowel movement in 30 days. minutes of using the product if you have symptoms of dehydration (see side effects section) or if you think you have a serious health problem.

Mild abdominal discomfort/cramps or gas may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist immediately. If your doctor has instructed you to use this product, remember that he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this product do not have serious side effects. Persistent diarrhea can lead to severe loss of body water (dehydration) and salt/minerals. This can cause serious side effects on the kidneys and heart. Call your doctor right away if you notice any symptoms of dehydration such as unusual dry mouth/increased thirst, no tears, dizziness/lightheadedness, or pale/wrinkled skin. Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: signs of kidney problems (eg, change in the amount of urine), severe or persistent abdominal/abdominal pain, bloody stools, rectal bleeding, mental/mood changes ( eg confusion, unusual sleepiness), muscle weakness/spasm, persistent diarrhea, swelling of the hands/ankles/feet. Get medical help right away if you have very serious side effects including: slow/irregular/rapid heartbeat, seizures. Very serious allergic reactions to this drug are rare. However, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, difficulty breathing. This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist. In the USA, ask your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You can report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or go to www.fda.gov/medwatch. In Canada, call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You can report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Before using sodium phosphate, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients that may cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details. Before using this medicine, tell your doctor or pharmacist about your medical history, especially: severe loss of body water (dehydration), high/low levels of certain blood minerals (such as potassium, calcium, sodium, phosphate), kidney disease, current stomach/abdominal symptoms (such as pain, cramps, persistent nausea/vomiting), bowel problems (eg, blockage, ulcerative colitis, hemorrhoids), use of laxatives for constipation in the past week, heart disease (eg, heart failure, irregular heartbeat) , liver disease, sodium-restricted diet. consult your physician before using this product if you have sudden changes in bowel habits lasting more than 2 weeks, or if you need to take a laxative daily. more than 1 week. These may be symptoms of a serious medical problem. Before surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all products you use (including prescription, over-the-counter drugs, and herbal products). Children may be more sensitive to side effects. medicine, especially dehydration and kidney problems. Older people may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug, especially dehydration and kidney problems. During pregnancy, this medicine should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known if this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

Drug interactions may change how your drugs work or increase the risk of serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Make a list of all the products you use (including prescription/OTC drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medication without your doctor’s approval. Some products that may interact with this medication include: other medications that may affect the kidneys (including ACE inhibitors such as lisinopril, ARBs such as valsartan, diuretics/”water pills” such as furosemide/hydrochlorothiazide, NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen/naproxen). Watery stools from sodium phosphate can cause your body to absorb less of your regular medications and get less benefit from them. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about how to reduce this effect.

This medicine may be harmful if swallowed. If someone has overdosed and has severe symptoms such as fainting or difficulty breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Residents of Canada can call their provincial poison control center. Overdose symptoms may include: muscle weakness, fast/slow/irregular heartbeat, mental/mood changes (eg confusion), change in the amount of urine.

Follow all regular medical and laboratory appointments. Laboratory and/or medical tests (eg, kidney tests, blood mineral levels) may be done periodically to monitor your progress or check for side effects. For more information, please consult your doctor. Drinking plenty of fluids (four to six 8-ounce glasses a day), eating high-fiber foods, and exercising regularly is important to keep your bowel healthy.

Unsuitable.

See storage information printed on package. If you have questions about storage, ask your pharmacist. Do not freeze. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medicines out of the reach of children and pets. Do not flush medicines down the toilet or pour them down the drain unless directed to do so. Properly dispose of this product when it has expired or is no longer needed. Check with your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.

Last updated June 2020 Copyright (c) 2020 First Databank, Inc.

Enema toxicity in cats | Veterinary Blog CE VETgirl

October 2014

Dr. Justine Lee, DVM, DACVECC, DABT

When it comes to cats’ rectums, cat owners should leave them alone.

That’s because even the most well-intentioned pet owner can accidentally use a Fleet enema to treat their constipated cat without knowing how toxic it is. Similarly, rare toxicity can occur when veterinarians (who have not carefully read the ingredients of an enema) use them on their patients.

Some types of enemas, especially FLEET or SALINE enemas, are fatal to cats and small dogs. Even a single Fleet enema (or anything containing phosphate, sodium phosphate, or saline) can be fatal to cats and small dogs.

Another important consideration? Normal, healthy, hydrated cats do not get constipated. It is people with an underlying medical condition such as megacolon or diseases that predispose to dehydration (e.g. acute kidney injury where their kidneys are not filtered effectively resulting in inappropriate free water loss and a secondary polyurethane/digestive tract and dehydration or diabetes mellitus when they have osmotic diuresis). These diseases predispose these patients to dehydration and potentially increase the risk of dehydration.

So why are Navy enemas toxic?

Because they increase osmolality in the colon, which draws more free water into the colon to balance the ion load (hence making stool softer and relieve constipation). Unfortunately, this leads to serious toxicity.

Clinical signs and clinicopathological findings on Fleet enema toxicity include:

• Malaise
• Vomiting
• Severe dehydration
• hypernatremia
• Hyperphosphatemia
• Hypocalcemia
• Hypokalemia
• Weak spot
• Bloody diarrhea
• Acute death

It is usually too late for these patients. We do not decontaminate them orally (because they received the toxicant rectally), and the use of activated charcoal is not recommended (because it may exacerbate hypernatremia). It is possible to administer warm water enemas (through a red rubber catheter) to remove any remaining Fleet enema if the pet owner has taken a Fleet enema within the last few hours.

Treatment should be aimed at correcting electrolytes with aggressive intravenous fluid therapy. 2-2.5 times maintenance therapy is often required, provided that the patient does not have cardiopulmonary disease. Frequent monitoring of electrolytes (every 4-8 hours) is necessary. The use of phosphate binders (eg, aluminum hydroxide) may also be considered to minimize further absorption of phosphorus from the gastrointestinal tract. Remember: 90% of phosphorus is absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract, and 90% is excreted through the kidneys.

What do you need to know about treatment? DO NOT TREAT HYPOCALCEMIA unless the patient has severe symptoms of hypocalcemia. Why? Because remember the formula: TOTAL Ca XP > 70 = soft tissue mineralization? Because these patients already have hyperphosphatemia, you are potentially contributing to mineralization, which can lead to secondary acute kidney injury (AKI). Unless the patient has twitching, convulsions or tremors, severe hypocalcemia, or persistent hypotension, calcium supplementation should be avoided for this toxicity.

Fortunately, with aggressive supportive care, electrolyte monitoring, potassium supplementation, and fluid therapy, most of these patients are treatable. Typically, hospitalization for 24-72 hours is necessary to treat Fleet enema toxicity.