Fletchers' Phosphate Enema

How does it work?

Sodium acid phosphate and sodium phosphate are known as 'osmotic laxatives'. They work by causing water to be drawn into the lower bowel. This increases the water content and volume of the stools, making them softer and easier to pass, therefore relieving constipation.

What is it used for?

Constipation

To empty the bowel prior to examination before or after an operation

Warning!

Avoid prolonged use.

It is important to drink plenty of fluids whilst being treated with this medicine.

This medicine contains sodium, and may not suitable for those individuals on a sodium restricted diet.

Use with caution in

Blockage of the gut (intestinal obstruction)

Disease affecting the brain and nervous system (neurological disease)

Elderly people

Weak or debilitated people

Not to be used in

Children under three years of age

Conditions which cause an increased absorption of the contents of the lower bowel (colon)

Inflammation of the bowel and back passage

Inflammatory bowel disease such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease

This medicine should not be used if you are allergic to one or any of its ingredients. Please inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have previously experienced such an allergy. If you feel you have experienced an allergic reaction, stop using this medicine and inform your doctor or pharmacist immediately.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Certain medicines should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, other medicines may be safely used in pregnancy or breastfeeding providing the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the unborn baby. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, before using any medicine.

The safety of this medicine in pregnancy has not been established. It should therefore be used with caution during pregnancy, and only if the benefits to the mother outweigh any risks to the foetus. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

The safety of this medicine during breastfeeding has not been established. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

Side effects

Medicines and their possible side effects can affect individual people in different ways. The following are some of the side effects that are known to be associated with this medicine. Because a side effect is stated here, it does not mean that all people using this medicine will experience that or any side effect.

A condition which causes a slowing of the heart and a fall in blood pressure which may lead to fainting (vasovagal attack)

The side effects listed above may not include all of the side effects reported by the drug's manufacturer. For more information about any other possible risks associated with this medicine, please read the information provided with the medicine or consult your doctor or pharmacist.

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