Locations:

Sodium Phosphate Monobasic; Sodium Phosphate Dibasic Enema

What is this medication?

SODIUM PHOSPATE SALTS (SOE dee um FOS fate sawlts) treats occasional constipation. It may also be used to clean the bowel out before a medical procedure. It works by increasing the amount of water your intestine absorbs. This softens the stool, making it easier to have a bowel movement. It also increases pressure, which prompts the muscles in your intestines to move stool. It belongs to a group of medications called laxatives.

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This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Fleet, Fleet Pedia-Lax, Ready To Use Saline

What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • Abnormal blood levels of electrolytes, such as sodium, phosphate, potassium or calcium
  • Bowel problems, such as colitis, constipation, and obstruction
  • Change in bowel habits lasting more than 2 weeks
  • Chest pain
  • Dehydration
  • Diet low in salt
  • Heart failure
  • Kidney disease
  • Stomach pain, nausea, vomiting
  • An unusual or allergic reaction to sodium phosphate, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
  • Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
  • Breast-feeding

How should I use this medication?

This medication is for rectal use only. Do not take it by mouth. Take it as directed on the prescription label. Do not use more often than directed.

Wash your hands before and after use. Remove top of enema. Lubricate the tip of the bottle. Lie on your side with your lower leg straightened out and your upper leg bent forward toward your stomach. Lift upper buttock to expose the rectal area. Gently insert the tip into the rectum. Squeeze bottle until it is empty. Wait a few seconds before removing the bottle. Hold buttocks together for a few seconds. Remain lying down for about 15 minutes to avoid having the medication come out.

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Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. While this medication may be prescribed for children as young as 2 years old for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

This does not apply. This medication is not for regular use.

What may interact with this medication?

  • Aspirin
  • Certain medications used to treat high blood pressure, such as captopril, enalapril, lisinopril, or candesartan, losartan, valsartan
  • Diuretics
  • NSAIDS, medications for pain and inflammation, such as ibuprofen or naproxen

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Do not use with any other laxatives unless your care team tells you to. Drink fluids as directed to prevent dehydration. See your care team right away if you do not have a bowel movement after using this medication.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

  • Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
  • Fast or irregular heartbeat
  • Kidney injury—decrease in the amount of urine, swelling of the ankles, hands, or feet
  • Rectal pain, burning, or bleeding after use
  • Seizures

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

  • Bloating
  • Nausea
  • Stomach pain
  • Vomiting

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medication?

Keep out of the reach of children and pets.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Get rid of any unused medication after the expiration date.

To get rid of medications that are no longer needed or have expired:

  • Take the medications to a medication take-back program. Check with your pharmacy or law enforcement to find a location.
  • If your cannot return the medication, check the label or package insert to see if the medication should be thrown out in the garbage. If you are not sure, ask your care team. If it is safe to put it in the trash, take the medication out of the container. Mix the medication with cat litter, dirt, coffee grounds, or other unwanted substance. Seal the mixture in a bag or container. Put it in the trash.

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NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.

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Note: Introduction and Additional Common Questions written and medically approved by Cleveland Clinic professionals.

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