What are the side effects of sodium phosphate? How can it affect your health? Learn about the potential risks and when to consult your doctor.

The Potential Risks of Sodium Phosphate

Sodium phosphate is a commonly used laxative, but it is important to be aware of the potential risks associated with its use. Rarely, serious kidney problems have been reported with the use of this product. Certain factors can increase the risk of these serious side effects, including heart failure, kidney disease, bowel problems (such as blockage or ulcerative colitis), or being older than 55 years.

Additionally, taking certain medications that can affect the kidneys can also increase the risk of complications. If any of these cautions apply to you, it is crucial to discuss the use of this medication with your doctor before using it.

Understanding the Appropriate Use of Sodium Phosphate

Sodium phosphate is primarily used to relieve occasional constipation. However, when treating constipation, it is generally recommended to use milder products, such as stool softeners or bulk-forming laxatives, whenever possible. Your doctor may also prescribe this product, often in combination with other products, to clean the stool from the intestines before surgery or certain bowel procedures, such as a colonoscopy or radiography.

It is important to follow the directions provided by your doctor or the product package closely. Sodium phosphate is typically taken by mixing the recommended dose in 8 ounces of liquid and drinking the solution. It is essential to drink plenty of clear liquids after taking the medication to help prevent serious side effects, such as dehydration and kidney problems.

Potential Side Effects of Sodium Phosphate

The most common side effects associated with the use of sodium phosphate include mild abdominal discomfort, cramps, gas, and nausea. These effects are usually temporary and often subside without the need for medical intervention.

However, more serious side effects can occur, particularly if the medication is not used as directed. Diarrhea that does not stop may result in dehydration, which can lead to serious complications affecting the kidneys and heart. If you experience symptoms of dehydration, such as a dry mouth, increased thirst, lack of tears, dizziness, or pale/wrinkled skin, it is essential to contact your doctor immediately.

Avoiding Laxative Dependence

Prolonged or repeated use of sodium phosphate can lead to a condition known as laxative dependence. This can result in ongoing constipation and the loss of normal bowel function. For most people with occasional constipation, it is generally recommended to use milder laxative products, such as bulk-forming laxatives or stool softeners, as they are less likely to cause dependence.

If you find that you need to use this medication or other laxative products for more than 7 days, it is essential to consult your doctor to ensure that you are not developing a dependence and to explore alternative treatment options.

When to Seek Medical Attention

If you do not have a bowel movement within 6 hours of using this product, experience symptoms of dehydration, bleed from the rectum, or believe you may have a serious medical problem, it is crucial to stop using the medication and contact your doctor immediately.

Remember, while this medication may be helpful in certain situations, it is important to use it only as directed by your healthcare provider and to be aware of the potential risks and side effects.

Consulting Your Healthcare Provider

If you are taking any other medications, have a medical condition, or are on a salt-restricted diet, it is important to consult your doctor before using this product to treat constipation. Your doctor can help determine the best course of action and ensure that the use of sodium phosphate is appropriate and safe for your individual circumstances.

By understanding the potential risks and proper use of sodium phosphate, you can make informed decisions about your healthcare and work closely with your doctor to manage your condition effectively.

Sodium Phosphates Oral: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing

Warnings:

Rarely, serious kidney problems have occurred with the use of this product. Heart failure, kidney disease, bowel problems (such as blockage, ulcerative colitis), or being older than 55 years can increase the risk. Taking certain medications that can affect the kidneys (see Drug Interactions section) can also increase the risk. If any of these cautions apply to you, talk with your doctor before using this drug.

Warnings:

Rarely, serious kidney problems have occurred with the use of this product. Heart failure, kidney disease, bowel problems (such as blockage, ulcerative colitis), or being older than 55 years can increase the risk. Taking certain medications that can affect the kidneys (see Drug Interactions section) can also increase the risk. If any of these cautions apply to you, talk with your doctor before using this drug.

.. . Show More

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 results in a bowel movement after 30 minutes to 6 hours.Do not use this medication in children younger than 5 years of age unless directed by the doctor.

How to use Sodium Phosphates Solution

Read and follow all directions on the product package. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist. To improve the taste, this product may be chilled in the refrigerator before use. Do not freeze. Mix your dose in 8 ounces (240 milliliters) of liquid and drink the mixed solution. Since your bowel movements can be very large/watery, drink plenty of clear liquids so that you do not become dehydrated.

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 take this product. Follow your doctor’s directions closely. After taking 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.

Dosage is based on your medical condition, procedure, age, and response to treatment. Do not take 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 severe side effects.

If you are seeing a doctor for any medical problems, are on a salt-restricted diet, or if you are taking any other medications, do not use this medication to treat yourself for constipation without consulting your doctor.

This medication may cause a condition known as laxative dependence, especially if it has been used regularly for a long time. In such cases, ongoing constipation and loss of normal bowel function may occur. 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.

Stop using this product and contact your doctor promptly if you do not have a bowel movement within 6 hours of using this product, if you have symptoms of dehydration (see Side Effects section), if you bleed from the rectum, or if you think you may have a serious medical problem.

Side Effects

Mild abdominal discomfort/cramps, gas, or nausea may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, contact 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: chest pain, 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 taking 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, chest pain, irregular heartbeat, edema), 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: burosumab, other drugs that may affect the kidneys (for example, 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 Sodium Phosphates Solution interact with other drugs you are taking?

Enter your medication into the WebMD interaction checker

Overdose

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).

Lab and/or medical tests (such as kidney function, blood mineral levels) may be done while you are taking 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 on the package label. If you have any questions about storage, ask your pharmacist. Do not freeze. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all drug products 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

Next

Save up to 80% on your prescriptions.

Available coupons

Save up to 80% on your prescription with WebMDRx

Drug Survey

Have you ever purchased Sodium Phosphates Solution?

Yes, In the past 3 months

Yes, In the past 6 months

Yes, In the past year

Haven’t purchased but considering

Don’t plan to purchase

This survey is being conducted by the WebMD marketing sciences department.

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.

Is It Bad for You?

Sodium Phosphate in Food: Is It Bad for You?

• Health Conditions
  • Featured
    • Breast Cancer
    • IBD
    • Migraine
    • Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
    • Rheumatoid Arthritis
    • Type 2 Diabetes
  • Articles
    • Acid Reflux
    • ADHD
    • Allergies
    • Alzheimer’s & Dementia
    • Bipolar Disorder
    • Cancer
    • Crohn’s Disease
    • Chronic Pain
    • Cold & Flu
    • COPD
    • Depression
    • Fibromyalgia
    • Heart Disease
    • High Cholesterol
    • HIV
    • Hypertension
    • IPF
    • Osteoarthritis
    • Psoriasis
    • Skin Disorders and Care
    • STDs
• Discover
  • Wellness Topics
    • Nutrition
    • Fitness
    • Skin Care
    • Sexual Health
    • Women’s Health
    • Mental Well-Being
    • Sleep
  • Product Reviews
    • Vitamins & Supplements
    • Sleep
    • Mental Health
    • Nutrition
    • At-Home Testing
    • CBD
    • Men’s Health
  • Original Series
    • Fresh Food Fast
    • Diagnosis Diaries
    • You’re Not Alone
    • Present Tense
  • Video Series
    • Youth in Focus
    • Healthy Harvest
    • No More Silence
    • Future of Health
• Plan
  • Health Challenges
    • Mindful Eating
    • Sugar Savvy
    • Move Your Body
    • Gut Health
    • Mood Foods
    • Align Your Spine
  • Find Care
    • Primary Care
    • Mental Health
    • OB-GYN
    • Dermatologists
    • Neurologists
    • Cardiologists
    • Orthopedists
  • Lifestyle Quizzes
    • Weight Management
    • Am I Depressed? A Quiz for Teens
    • Are You a Workaholic?
    • How Well Do You Sleep?
  • Tools & Resources
    • Health News
    • Find a Diet
    • Find Healthy Snacks
    • Drugs A-Z
    • Health A-Z
• Connect
  • • Breast Cancer
    • Inflammatory Bowel Disease
    • Psoriatic Arthritis
    • Migraine
    • Multiple Sclerosis
    • Psoriasis

Medically reviewed by Natalie Butler, R. D., L.D. — By Corey Whelan — Updated on September 18, 2018

Overview

Sodium phosphate is an umbrella term that refers to multiple combinations of sodium (salt) and phosphate (an inorganic, salt-forming chemical). Food-grade sodium phosphate is recognized by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as safe for consumption. It is often used as an additive in processed food manufacturing. It’s also an ingredient in many household products and medications. For some people, sodium phosphate may be used to prepare the bowel prior to colonoscopy.

Sodium phosphate can be found in fast food, deli meat, processed meat, canned tuna, baked goods, and other manufactured foods. It serves a variety of functions:

• It thickens food. It stabilizes the texture of processed foods, such as mashed potato mixes.
• It cures meat and meat products. It helps to keep deli meats and bacon moist, avoiding spoilage.
• It’s a leavening agent. It helps dough rise in commercially prepared cakes and breads and in cake mixes.
• It’s an emulsifying agent. It acts as a stabilizer to keep oil and water mixed together in certain types of food, such as processed cheese.
• It balances pH levels in processed food. It stabilizes the balance between acidity and alkalinity, extending shelf life and improving taste.

Food-grade sodium phosphate is categorized by the FDA as GRAS, which means “generally recognized as safe.” This may be because the amount of sodium phosphate added to processed food, is relatively low.

One study found that sodium phosphate, when used as a food additive, can impact health differently than naturally occurring phosphate. This is because it’s absorbed differently by the body. According to the abstract, high levels of phosphate may elevate mortality rates for the general public, as well as for those with kidney disease and cardiovascular disease. Researchers linked high phosphate levels to accelerated aging and vascular damage. The researchers recommended that people eat foods with naturally occurring phosphates, rather than those with added sodium phosphate.

Some athletes take sodium phosphate as a supplement to enhance performance. However, a study, reported in the International Journal of Sport Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism, found that supplementation with sodium phosphate did not improve aerobic ability in athletes.

Side effects from an overdose of sodium phosphate may include:

• vomiting
• headache
• reduced urine output
• bloating
• abdominal pain
• dizziness
• irregular heartbeat
• seizure

Talk to your doctor about your use of sodium phosphate, particularly if you take it as a supplement or eat a large amount of processed or fast food.

People with certain conditions should avoid taking this substance. These include:

• kidney disease
• intestinal tears or blockages
• colitis, or slow moving bowels
• heart failure
• an allergy to sodium phosphate

Your doctor may also recommend reducing your intake if you are currently on certain medications. Prior to taking it, make sure to discuss your medication history, including which herbal supplements you use, with your doctor.

Foods with naturally occurring sodium phosphate include:

• nuts and legumes
• meat
• fish
• poultry
• eggs

Foods that may have added sodium phosphate include:

• cured meat
• deli meat
• fast food
• processed foods, such as ready-to-eat meals
• commercially prepared baked goods and cake mixes
• canned tuna

Sodium phosphate is naturally occurring in many foods. It’s also added to foods to maintain freshness, alter texture, and achieve a variety of other effects. Sodium phosphate is considered safe by the FDA but should be avoided by certain people, including those with kidney disease. Make sure to talk to your doctor if you are concerned about your sodium phosphate intake or before using it as a supplement.

Last medically reviewed on December 22, 2017

How we reviewed this article:

Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.

• Buck CL, et al. Sodium phosphate as an ergogenic aid. (2013). DOI:
  10.1007/s40279-013-0042-0
• CFR – Code of federal regulations title 21. (2017).
  accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cdrh/cfdocs/cfcfr/CFRSearch.cfm?CFRPart=182
• FDA drug safety communication: FDA warns of possible harm from exceeding recommended dose of over-the-counter sodium phosphate products to treat constipation. (2016).
  fda.gov/Drugs/DrugSafety/ucm380757.htm
• Hoffmanová I, et al. (2013). Serious risk related to use of sodium phosphate solution.
  ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24350942
• Phosphates in everyday living. (n.d.).
  phosphatesfacts.org/what-are-phosphates/
• Potassium and sodium phosphate (oral route). (2017).
  mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/potassium-and-sodium-phosphate-oral-route/description/drg-20074868
• Ritz E, et al. (2012). Phosphate additives in food – a health risk. DOI:
  10.3238/arztebl.2012.0049
• Sodium phosphate. (2016).
  medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a609019.html
• West JS, et al. (2012). The effect of 6 days of sodium phosphate supplementation on appetite, energy intake and aerobic capacity in trained men and women.
  ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22804972

Share this article

Medically reviewed by Natalie Butler, R.D., L.D. — By Corey Whelan — Updated on September 18, 2018

Read this next

• Kosher Salt: What It Is, Vs. Other Types of Salt, and More

  By Rachael Ajmera, MS, RD

  If you’ve ever wondered, “What is kosher salt?” look no further than this article. We compare different types of salt so you can tell the difference…

  READ MORE

• 6 Low-Sodium Foods to Improve Your Heart Health

  Medically reviewed by Natalie Olsen, R.D., L.D., ACSM EP-C

  Too much salt in your diet can lead to high blood pressure, which is difficult for a person to detect, especially at first. Learn about foods with low…

  READ MORE

• The 14 Best Foods to Eat When You’re Nauseous

  By Elise Mandl, BSc, Msc, APD

  Those with nausea seem to tolerate certain foods and drinks better than others. Here are the best foods and drinks for when you’re feeling nauseous.

  READ MORE

• 7 Enticing Health Benefits of Chia Seeds

  By Kris Gunnars, BSc and Lizzie Streit, MS, RDN, LD

  Chia seeds are versatile and packed with nutrients. Here are 7 chia seed benefits, all backed by science.

  READ MORE

• The 15 Best Foods to Eat When You’re Sick

  By Taylor Jones, RD

  Eating the right foods can have major benefits when you’re sick. Here are the 15 best foods to eat when sick with the cold, flu, nausea, or anything…

  READ MORE

• 6 Surprising Health Benefits of Sweet Potatoes

  By Erica Julson, MS, RDN, CLT

  Sweet potatoes are a popular root vegetable, packed with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber. Here are 6 surprising health benefits of sweet…

  READ MORE

• How Much Caffeine Do Coke and Diet Coke Contain?

  By Rachael Ajmera, MS, RD

  Coke and Diet Coke are popular drinks that contain a hearty dose of caffeine, which people may embrace or want to avoid. This article compares the…

  READ MORE

ICSC 1178 – SODIUM PHOSPHATE (ANHYDROUS)

ICSC 1178 – SODIUM PHOSPHATE (ANHYDROUS)

« back to the search result list(en)

Chinese – ZHEnglish – ENFinnish – FIFrench – FRGerman – DEHebrew – HEHungarian – HUItalian – ITJapanese – JAKorean – KOPersian – FAPolish – PLPortuguese – PTRussian – RUSpanish – ES

	SPECIAL HAZARDS	PREVENTIVE MEASURES	FIRE EXTINGUISHING
FIRE AND EXPLOSION	Not combustible. In a fire, releases irritating or toxic fumes (or gases).		In case of fire in work area, use appropriate extinguishing media.

PREVENT DUST! AVOID ANY CONTACT! IN ALL CASES, CONSULT A DOCTOR!
	SYMPTOMS	PREVENTIVE MEASURES	FIRST AID
Inhalation	Cough. Sore throat. Burning sensations. Confused breath.	Use local exhaust or respiratory protection.	Fresh air, peace. Semi-sitting position. Seek immediate medical attention.
Leather	Skin burns. Pain.	Protective clothing.	Remove contaminated clothing. Rinse skin with plenty of water or take a shower for at least 15 minutes. Seek immediate medical attention.
Eyes	Redness. Pain. Severe deep burns.	Use face mask or eye protection in combination with respiratory protection.	Rinse with plenty of water for several minutes (remove contact lenses if possible without difficulty). Seek immediate medical attention.
Ingestion	Cough. A sore throat. Abdominal pain. Burning sensation. Shock or severe weakness.	Do not eat, drink or smoke while working. Wash hands before eating.	Rinse your mouth. DO NOT induce vomiting. Give one or two glasses of water to drink. Rest. Seek medical attention.

LEAK DISPOSAL	CLASSIFICATION AND LABELING
Personal protection: complete protective clothing including self-contained breathing apparatus. Sweep spilled substance into closed containers. Carefully collect the rest. Then store and dispose of in accordance with local regulations.	According to UN GHS criteria DANGER Causes severe skin burns and eye damage Transport UN classification UN hazard class: 8; UN Packing Group: III
STORAGE
Separated from strong acids. Keep dry. Good to close.
PACK

(en)	Neither the ILO nor the WHO nor the European Union can be held responsible for the quality and accuracy of the translation or for the possible use of this information. © Russian version, 2018

Sodium phosphate – instructions for use

sodium phosphate

Instruction:

• Pharmacological action
• Indications
• Contraindications
• Dosage and Administration
• Side effects
• Classification

Pharmacological action

Laxative, increases the osmotic pressure in the intestinal lumen and stimulates peristalsis. The time of onset of the effect is 3-5 minutes after administration.

Indications

Constipation, preparation for endoscopic, radiopaque examination of the gastrointestinal tract, operations, childbirth; postoperative period.

Contraindications

Acute hemorrhoids, anal fissures, acute inflammatory and/or ulcerative lesions of the lower gastrointestinal tract.

Dosage and administration

Rectally (using a special enema), adults – 120 ml, children – 40-60 ml. It is recommended to keep in the intestines for 8-10 minutes.

Side effects

Local irritant, allergic reactions.

Classification

• ATX

  A06AD17, A06AG01, B05XA09, V03AG05

• Pharmacological group

  Laxatives

• ICD codes 10

  K59. 0 Constipation

  K94 Diagnosis of diseases of the gastrointestinal tract

Share this page

Read more about

Learn more about the active substance Sodium phosphate:

• Reviews
• Questions
• Latin name
• Chemical formula

Information about the active substance Sodium phosphate is intended for medical and pharmaceutical professionals, for reference purposes only. The instructions are not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. The information contained here may change over time.