You may have been told by your doctor to prepare for a major medical test, such as a colonoscopy, which looks inside your intestines. You may have been given a special pill to help you cleanse your intestines. These are the pills we're going to talk about today. We'll talk clearly and simply about how to use them, what to watch out for, and possible side effects.
What is the function of this medicine?
Simply put, these Sodium Phosphate tablets are a special medicine that is given to cleanse your intestines (bowel cleansing). This is done by drawing more water into your intestines. Then the stool becomes very liquid and starts to pass easily. It also increases the pressure inside the intestines and helps in expelling the stool. These belong to the group of medicines called laxatives . The main purpose of this is to completely empty the intestines before a medical examination and help the doctor to make the examination clear.
Things you need to tell your doctor before taking this medicine
It is very important for your safety to inform your doctor about these things. If you have any of the following conditions, be sure to tell them before using this medicine.
| Status | Description |
|---|---|
| Heart disease | If you have conditions such as heart failure or angina. |
| Kidney disease | If you have any type of kidney disease. |
| Bowel problems | Conditions such as constipation, intestinal obstruction, or colitis. |
| Other health problems | If you are dehydrated, have electrolyte imbalances in your blood such as sodium, potassium, or calcium, or have seizures. |
| Allergies | If you have an allergy to sodium phosphate or any other medicine or food. |
| Special occasions | If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding. |
The medicine should be used in the right way.
The way you use this medicine is very important. Follow the doctor's instructions.
- Drink with water: When taking these pills, you should drink them with a large glass of water .
- Drink plenty of fluids: This is the most important thing. You should definitely drink at least 240 ml (a large glass) of clear fluids with each dose of the medicine.
- What are these clear liquids? Water, flavored water, lemonade (without pieces), ginger ale, apple juice, etc. Never drink purple or red liquids. Also, avoid fruit drinks with pulp.
- Warning: If you do not drink enough fluids while taking this medication, serious side effects such as dehydration and kidney damage can occur.
- Other medications: Do not take any other medications by mouth within one hour before or after taking this medication.
You may receive a special instruction leaflet (MedGuide) with this medicine. Always read the information in it carefully.
What if I take too much medicine?
If you think you have taken too much medicine, immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital . Or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
Other medications that may interact with this medicine
Some medications you take may interact with this medicine. So tell your doctor about all the medications you take, especially:
- Aspirin
- Some medications for blood pressure (e.g. captopril, enalapril, losartan, valsartan)
- Diuretics
- Medications for pain and inflammation (NSAIDS), such as ibuprofen or naproxen.
This list is not complete. Be sure to tell your doctor about all medications, vitamins, herbal remedies, and even supplements you are taking.
Things to consider when taking medication
- Do not use any other bowel cleansing methods, such as enemas, while taking this medicine.
- Start drinking only clear liquids at least 12 hours before you start taking the medication.
- If you cannot take the medicine completely as prescribed by the doctor, tell him/her.
If you are taking this medicine and still have no bowel movements, this is not normal. If this happens , contact your doctor immediately.
Side effects that may occur due to medication
Like any medicine, this one can have side effects. Some of them are serious, some are common.
| Serious side effects that require immediate medical attention | |
|---|---|
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat. |
| Kidney injury | Decreased urine output, swelling of the ankles, hands, or feet. |
| Changes in heart rate | Increased or irregular heartbeat. |
| Seizures | Sudden convulsions. |
| Side effects that are usually not serious, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Bloating | Stomach pain |
| Nausea | Vomiting |
How do you store and dispose of the medicine?
- Keep this medicine out of the reach of children and pets .
- Store at room temperature (between 15-30 degrees Celsius).
- Don't keep any leftover medication after your medical exam, throw it away.
- When disposing of medication, if possible, take it to a drug take-back program (some pharmacies may have one). If not, crush the pills, mix them with something like used tea leaves, coffee grounds, or soil, put them in a sealable bag, and throw them in the trash. Never flush them down the toilet.
Take-Home Message
- Before taking this medicine, tell your doctor about all your health conditions.
- Drink plenty of clear liquids as your doctor tells you. This is essential to avoid dehydration.
- Be aware of symptoms of serious side effects (e.g., facial swelling, kidney problems, seizures) and seek immediate medical attention if they occur.
- This medicine is for you only. Never share it with anyone else.
- By following the instructions exactly, you will be able to successfully complete your medical examination.
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