What is Fleet Phospho-soda?

Fleet Phospho-soda is a type of Oral Sodium Phosphate (OSP), a category of liquid solutions which doctors have recommended both as a laxative and as a bowel preparation for colonoscopies.  Fleet Phospho-soda and Fleet Phospho-soda EZ-Prep Bowel Cleansing System are OSP products manufactured by C.B. Fleet Company.

Use of OSP products has been linked to serious kidney problems called acute phosphate nephropathy (APN), also known as nephrocalcinosis. APN can lead to kidney failure or other permanent kidney damage, thus requiring some to endure a lifetime of kidney dialysis and other invasive treatments. In some cases, APN can be fatal.

In March of 2006, the FDA notified healthcare professionals of reports linking APN to oral phosphate products.  This alert cautioned doctors when administering OSPs to those of advanced age, those with kidney disease or decreased intravascular volume, and those using medicines that affect renal function.   

On December 11, 2008 the FDA announced that it would require a “black box” warning for prescription OSPs to warn consumers about the risk of APN.  At that time, the FDA also expressed concern over the use of over-the-counter OSPs such as Fleet Phospho-soda as a colonoscopic bowel preparation and recommended against such use.

On December 15, 2008 C.B. Fleet issued a voluntary recall of Fleet Phospho-soda® Saline Laxative and EZ-Prep Bowel Cleansing System and asked healthcare providers to cease recommending the use of said products in light of the FDA alert.

How do I know if I have APN?

Only your doctor can tell you if you have acute phosphate nephropathy (or nephrocalcinosis).  If you started to have kidney problems following use of an OSP, your doctor may conduct a kidney biopsy to determine whether the calcium-phosphate crystals have damaged the renal tubules.  Prior to a diagnosis of APN, many individuals have reported the following symptoms after taking a Fleet OSP:

• Fluid Retention
• High Blood Pressure
• Irregular Heartbeat
• Muscle Twitching
• Seizures

If you have experienced these symptoms after taking a bowel prep solution, consult your doctor immediately.

How do I know if I have a claim?

We cannot answer that question without speaking to you personally.  No two people are the same, your injury might be different from that of another individual.  Please call us at (800) 701-3672 and speak to one of our trained team members.  An attorney will look over your case and let you know what they believe the best course of action is for you.