Osmoprep

• Risk factors: Older adult | Not enough fluids in your body | Bowel obstruction (blockage) | Colitis (bowel inflammation) | Kidney problems | Heart failure | Taking other medications that lower kidney function

Although rare, bowel preps that contain sodium phosphate, including OsmoPrep (sodium phosphate), have caused sudden kidney damage called acute phosphate nephropathy. This typically happens within days after taking OsmoPrep (sodium phosphate), but can sometimes happen months later. Sometimes, the damage is permanent and might require long-term dialysis treatment. You're at higher risk for kidney damage if you're also taking other medications that affect your kidneys, such as diuretics (water pills), angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs). It’s important to follow your provider’s directions on how to properly take this medication. Drink enough water before, during, and after taking OsmoPrep (sodium phosphate) to avoid getting dehydrated. Don’t take any other sodium phosphate medications or enema products with this bowel prep. Let your provider know right away if you feel tired, drowsy, have a hard time urinating, or have swelling in your legs and feet.

• Risk factors: Kidney problems | Taking other medications that can affect electrolytes

OsmoPrep (sodium phosphate) can cause a lot of fluid loss (dehydration) and an imbalance in body salts (electrolytes). This can lead to problems such as abnormal heartbeat, seizures, and kidney problems. If you experience a lot of vomiting or signs of dehydration, let your provider know immediately. They might need to order lab work to check your electrolytes and kidney function.

• Risk factors: Taking medications that affect heartbeat | Electrolyte not in balance | History of heart attack or heart failure

Although rare, OsmoPrep (sodium phosphate) might cause changes in your heartbeat because it can affect the balance of electrolytes in your body. Your risk of heart problems is higher if you're taking other medications that affect your heartbeat. If you have a history of heart problems, tell your provider before starting OsmoPrep (sodium phosphate) because they might need to check your heart before and after you use this medication.

• Risk factors: Electrolytes not in balance | History of seizures | Taking other medications that raise your risk of seizures | Withdrawal from alcohol or certain medications

Taking OsmoPrep (sodium phosphate) can affect the balance of fluids and electrolytes in your body and can raise your risk for seizures, even if you've never had seizures before. Your risk is higher if you're also taking other medications that might cause seizures, such as tricyclic antidepressants. Be careful using this medication if you have a history of seizures. Get medical help right away if you feel like fainting.

• Risk factors: Inflammation in the bowels (swelling,damage) | Ulcerative colitis

Osmotic laxatives, such as OsmoPrep (sodium phosphate), can cause damage in your bowels. Let your provider know if you have stomach ulcers, blockage, or inflammation before taking OsmoPrep (sodium phosphate), and report any signs of severe stomach pain or blood in your stools.

If you have trouble swallowing or have problems with your gag reflex, let your provider know. Because you need to swallow many tablets and a lot of liquid with this bowel prep, this medication might put you at risk for gagging or choking. If you use OsmoPrep (sodium phosphate), you might need a caregiver or loved one to check on you as you take this medication in case you need medical attention. If you have trouble taking OsmoPrep (sodium phosphate), let your provider know as soon as possible.