Generically known as sodium phosphate, or sodium biphosphate, Fleet Phospho-soda is a bowel cleansing medication prescribed to patients prior to endoscopy, surgery, x-rays or various other intestinal procedures. Fleet Phospho-soda comes in the form of a tablet, oral solution and rectal enema. In most cases, patients will have a limited or restricted diet while taking Fleet Phospho-soda in the 24 hours prior to undergoing their procedure.
Fleet Phospho-soda is produced by C.B. Fleet. Other brand names of sodium phosphate medications include OsmoPrep and Visicol, both produced by Salix Pharmaceuticals.
FDA Warns Consumers of Dangers
On Dec. 11, 2008, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) mandated that C.B. Fleet include a “black box” warning—the most serious type of FDA warning—on all Fleet Phospho-soda packaging. Four days later, C.B. Fleet issued a voluntarily nationwide recall of Fleet Phospho-soda products.
Fleet Phospho-soda Side Effects
The most severe side effect of Fleet Phospho-soda is acute phosphate nephropathy, a life-threatening kidney condition in which the development of phosphate crystals on the kidneys causes serious tissue damage and, eventually, kidney failure. The earlier acute phosphate nephropathy is diagnosed, the better the chances of survival and recovery.
In most cases, this kidney disorder is treated with dialysis and/or kidney transplant. Symptoms of acute phosphate nephropathy include:
- Bloating
- Discomfort
- Epilepsy
- Fatigue
- Hypertension
- Irregular heartbeat
- Lower back pain
- Twitching and muscle cramping
- Urination problems
Fleet Phospho-soda patients who develop any of these symptoms should seek emergency medical attention to prevent possibly fatal complications. Tragically, most patients don’t recognize the presence of acute phosphate nephropathy until the condition has progressed to acute renal failure. Such patients typically lose more than 75 percent of their kidney function prior to getting the proper medical care.
Fleet Phospho-soda Lawsuits & Settlements
Injured Fleet Phospho-soda patients should, once their health is stable, consult with a defective drug attorney to find out if they are eligible to seek compensation for the damages they incurred. Recoverable damages may include more than just physical injuries. They may also include financial losses such as medical expenses and lost wages, and emotional losses including pain and suffering.
To speak with a defective drug attorney at Gacovino, Lake and Associates, contact our offices today. We will discuss your specific circumstances, in full, to determine if we can help you.
