What are potassium phosphate and sodium phosphate?
Phosphorus is a naturally occurring substance that is important in every cell in the body. The majority of phosphorus in the body is found in the bones. The potassium and sodium salt forms of phosphorus are called phosphates.
Potassium phosphate and sodium phosphate is used to acidify the urine and lower the urinary calcium concentration. This may reduce rash and odor caused by ammonium in the urine. Potassium phosphate and sodium phosphate may also increase the antibiotic effect of methenamine (Hiprex, Urex). Potassium phosphate and sodium phosphate is also used as a phosphorus supplement to prevent and/or treat a phosphorus deficiency.
Potassium phosphate and sodium phosphate may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
What is the most important information I should know about potassium phosphate and sodium phosphate?
Do not take antacids containing aluminum, calcium, or magnesium while taking potassium phosphate and sodium phosphate, except under the supervision of your doctor. Antacids may decrease phosphate absorption.
If you have kidney stones, there is a possibility that you will pass old stones after starting treatment with potassium phosphate and sodium phosphate.
Who should not take potassium phosphate and sodium phosphate?
You cannot take potassium phosphate and sodium phosphate if you have
high levels of potassium in your body,
high levels of phosphorus in your body,
infected phosphate stones, or
severe kidney disease.
Before taking potassium phosphate and sodium phosphate, tell your doctor if you have
Addison's disease,
a bowel obstruction,
heart disease,
high blood pressure,
kidney disease,
liver disease or cirrhosis,
swelling or water retention,
high levels of sodium in your body,
low levels of calcium in your body,
hypoparathyroidism,
pancreatitis, or
rickets.
You may not be able to take potassium phosphate and sodium phosphate, or you may require a lower dose or special monitoring if you have any of the conditions listed above.
Potassium phosphate and sodium phosphate is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether potassium phosphate and sodium phosphate will harm an unborn baby. Do not take this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant.
It is also not known whether potassium phosphate and sodium phosphate will harm a nursing infant. Do not take potassium phosphate and sodium phosphate without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding baby.