Phosphate Enemas May Cause Death for the Elderly

Sodium phosphate enemas used to relieve constipation among the elderly may also cause some people to experience kidney failure or even death, a new study suggests.

According to Reuters, researchers from Rabin Medical Center in Israel studied a group of 11 patients between the ages of 61 and 89 whose kidneys had suddenly failed after using sodium phosphate enemas. Researchers found that within one day of using the treatment, most of the patients had low calcium levels, low blood pressure, and increased phosphate levels in their blood.

Five of the patients who were studied died, while three patients required prolonged hospitalizations.

Fleet, the company that licensed the enemas, issued a statement that said it had “just became aware of the study. It was not involved in the study or consulted on the report. Fleet is in the process of evaluating the report, contacting the authors of the study, communicating with Dexxon, and communicating with the appropriate regulatory authorities."

If you or a loved one has been harmed by a dangerous drug, you may be entitled to compensation. Contact Sokolove Law for a free legal consultation and to find out if you have grounds to pursue legal action.