What is oral sodium phosphate (OSP) and why is it prescribed?

Oral sodium phosphate, marketed by Fleet as an over-the-counter bowel prep and prescribed under brand names Visicol and OsmoPrep, is recommended or prescribed to patients who are preparing to undergo a colonoscopy. OSP is used as a bowel prep prior to surgery.

What is the defect?

OSP has been linked to a type of acute kidney injury known as acute phosphate nephropathy. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has reported seeing similar kidney problems in people who use over-the-counter OSP products as bowel preps and in December 2008 issued a public warning for this very serious injury.

You face an increased risk of developing acute phosphate nephropathy with the use of OSP bowel cleansing products if you:

• Are 55 years of age or older
• Are dehydrated
• Have a history of kidney problems
• Have delayed bowel emptying
• Have active colitis

What are the adverse symptoms caused by OSP?

Patients with acute phosphate nephropathy can experience a decrease in kidney function. Symptoms can include malaise, lethargy, drowsiness, decreased amount of urine, and swelling of the ankles, feet and legs. There might not be any symptoms detected in the beginning stages. Symptoms may only be found by blood tests to determine kidney function (serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen).

Contact an Oral Sodium Phosphate Injury Lawyer in Massachusetts

If you or someone you love has been harmed by someone's negligence regarding products, contact the Law Offices of Mark E. Salomone, serving Boston, Worcester, Springfield, and communities throughout Massachusetts, to fight for your rights. We also can represent you if you have been injured in Massachusetts but reside out of state.

Remember, your initial consultation is free, and you don't pay us unless you win.

Contact our firm serving Boston, Springfield, Worcester, and communities throughout Massachusetts to schedule a consultation with a dangerous drug lawyer. Our attorneys are committed to helping victims obtain maximum compensation for their personal injuries.