Oral sodium phosphate (NaP) solution is used globally as a bowel preparation for colonoscopy, surgery and medical-imaging (Balaban 2008). We present a case of a patient who suffered sudden hypotensive syncope and iatrogenic mandibular fractures within an hour of ingesting a NaP solution. We discuss the uses of these medicines and highlight the need to warn patients of possible adverse side effects to avoid patient harm and subsequent litigation.
BalabanD2008Guidelines for the safe and effective use of sodium phosphate solution for bowel cleansing prior to colonoscopyGastroenterology Nursing31(5) 327–34
2.
CaswellM, ThompsonWO, KanapkaJA, GaltDJ2007The time course and effect on serum electrolytes of oral sodium phosphates solution in healthy male and female volunteersCanadian Journal of Clinical Pharmacology14(3) e260–74
3.
RexDX2007Dosing considerations in the use of sodium phosphate bowel preparations for colonoscopyAnnals of Pharmacotherapy41(9) 1466–75
4.
SleeTM, VlemingLJ, ValentijnRM2008Renal failure due to acute phosphate nephropathyNetherlands Journal of Medicine66(10) 438–441
