OsmoPrep Side Effects and Risks
It is very common and routine for doctors to request a colonoscopy for patients aged 50 and older. However, the drugs often prescribed to cleanse the bowels before the procedure can have severe side effects.
OsmoPrep and Visicol are the only two prescription oral sodium phosphate (OSP) laxatives used for bowel cleansing before colonoscopies, x-rays and surgeries. These products have been known to cause the following:
- Irregular heartbeat
- Acute phosphate nephropathy (kidney damage)
- Renal failure
- Seizures
- Rectal bleeding
- Chafing
Some of the above side effects may cause permanent damage or death if left untreated.
In 2008, the FDA required manufacturers to add boxed warning labels to these products and to conduct further research on the benefits and risks of OSPs. The FDA also issued a warning to the makers of Fleet Phospho-soda for the defective product, later causing the company to recall the over-the-counter OSP.
Patients who are at high risk for acute phosphate nephropathy, the most severe of the side effects, are persons over the age of 55 and people who are hypovolemic, on renal medications or have kidney disease. Persons with a history of electrolyte imbalance and dialysis should also not take these medications.
A physician is responsible for treating patients correctly, examining medical histories and possible problems with procedures and medications. Patients who are misdiagnosed and are suffering from the side effects of OsmoPrep and other OSPs may have a legal claim against the doctor or hospital for negligence or improper care. If you believe that a medical professional’s negligence contributed to your injuries, contact the experienced Missouri medical malpractice lawyers at Page Cagle. Call us today at (866) 620-5757 for a free and confidential evaluation.
