Phosphate Laxative Side Effects

Generic name: sodium biphosphate / sodium phosphate

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Feb 26, 2025.

Note: This document provides detailed information about Phosphate Laxative Side Effects associated with sodium biphosphate / sodium phosphate. Some dosage forms listed on this page may not apply specifically to the brand name Phosphate Laxative.

Applies to sodium biphosphate / sodium phosphate: rectal enema.

Other dosage forms:

• oral solution, oral tablet
• intravenous solution

Precautions

It is very important that your doctor check your progress at regular visits. This will allow your doctor to see if the medicine is working properly and to decide if you or your child should continue to use it.

Tell your doctor if you or your child had already used a laxative for more than 1 week.

Call your doctor right away if you or your child has rectal bleeding, no bowel movement within 30 minutes of enema use, or has symptoms of dehydration (eg, confusion, decreased urination, feeling thirsty, vomiting). These maybe symptoms of a serious condition.

Do not use this medicine if you or your child is using another product containing sodium phosphate.

Serious side effects of Phosphate Laxative

Along with its needed effects, sodium biphosphate / sodium phosphate may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur while taking sodium biphosphate / sodium phosphate:

See also:

For healthcare professionals

Applies to sodium biphosphate / sodium phosphate: oral solution, oral tablet, rectal enema.

General adverse events

The most common adverse events were abdominal bloating, nausea, abdominal pain, and vomiting.^[Ref]

Gastrointestinal

• Very common (10% or more): Bloating (39%), nausea (37%), abdominal pain (24%), vomiting (10%)^[Ref]

Renal

• Postmarketing reports: Renal impairment, increased blood urea nitrogen (BUN), increased creatinine, acute renal failure, acute phosphate nephropathy, nephrocalcinosis, renal tubular necrosis^[Ref]

Nervous system

• Postmarketing reports: Seizures^[Ref]

Cardiovascular

• Postmarketing reports: Arrhythmias^[Ref]

Hypersensitivity

• Postmarketing reports: Hypersensitivity reactions (including anaphylaxis, rash, pruritus, urticaria, throat tightness, bronchospasm, dyspnea, pharyngeal edema, dysphagia, paresthesia, swelling of the lips and tongue, and facial swelling)^[Ref]

Further information

Phosphate Laxative side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Note: Medication side effects may be underreported. If you are experiencing side effects that are not listed, submit a report to the FDA by following this guide.

Medical Disclaimer