Fleet Phospho-Soda Recall

Fleet Phospho-soda achieves laxative action by drawing fluids from other parts of the body into the colon. This can cause serious side effects, including acute phosphate nephropathy. This kidney injury occurs when deposits of calcium-phosphate crystals become trapped in the renal (kidney) tubules. The entrapment of these crystals can lead to permanent kidney function impairment, and dialysis or a kidney transplant may be required to treat it. Symptoms of acute phosphate nephropathy include:

• Decreased urine
• Lethargy
• Malaise
• Swelling of the ankles, feet and legs

Blood tests can be used to formally diagnose acute phosphate nephropathy. Other harmful side effects associated with the use of oral sodium phosphates include kidney failure and chronic kidney disease. Kidney failure in particular is a major risk when considering the large dose patients are instructed to take.

Other serious side effects of Fleet Phospho-Soda include:

• Rectal bleeding
• Dehydration
• Irregular heartbeat
• Loss of appetite
• Vomiting

Certain factors can put an individual at a higher risk for developing acute phosphate nephropathy and other Fleet Phospho-Soda side effects. Risk factors for developing kidney problems related to oral sodium phosphate solutions include:

• Age (55 and older)
• Active colitis
• Pre-existing kidney disease
• Bowel obstruction
• Medications that affect renal function or perfusion
• Heart failure

In addition, individuals with decreased intravascular volume and those who are hypovolemic have a greater chance of developing acute phosphate nephropathy and other kidney problems. Some sources also claim that electrolyte imbalances can be a risk factor as well.

The risk of kidney damage from Fleet Phospho-Soda and other oral sodium phosphate products was initially reported in 2003. Three years later, the Food and Drug Administration released a report stating that oral sodium phosphate solutions were linked to a serious side effect known as acute phosphate nephropathy. Unfortunately, C.B. Fleet continued to market Fleet Phospho-Soda as an over-the-counter bowel cleanser until it was recalled in December 2008. The FDA decided that bowel cleaners such as this must have a black box warning about the risk of kidney damage, and that oral sodium phosphate products should be available via prescription only. C.B. Fleet now faces a large number of Fleet Phospho-Soda lawsuits from consumers who have developed kidney problems as a result of the product.

The Fleet Phospho-Soda attorneys at Morgan and Morgan aim to make manufacturersresponsible for the dangers their products pose to consumers. If you have developed acute phosphate nephropathy or other kidney problems after using Fleet Phospho-Soda or any oral sodium phosphate solution, you may be entitled to compensation. Our Fleet Phospho-Soda lawyers are experienced in litigating defective drug lawsuits and have the resources and ability to pursue justice on your behalf.

For more information, visit our class action website.