K-Phos No. 2
Generic Name: potassium phosphate and sodium phosphate (poe TASS ee um FOSS fate and SEW dee um FOSS fate)
Brand Name: K-Phos M.F., K-Phos Neutral, K-Phos No. 2, PHOS-NaK, Phospha 250 Neutral
What is K-Phos No. 2 (potassium phosphate and sodium phosphate)?
Phosphorus is a naturally occurring substance that is important in every cell in the body. The majority of phosphorus in the body is found in the bones. The potassium and sodium salt forms of phosphorus are called phosphates.
Potassium phosphate and sodium phosphate is a combination medicine used to make the the urine more acid to help prevent kidney stones.
Potassium phosphate and sodium phosphate may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
What is the most important information I should know about this medicine?
You should not take potassium phosphate and sodium phosphate if you have severe kidney disease, or high levels of phosphorus in your body.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking this medicine?
You should not take potassium phosphate and sodium phosphate if you are allergic to it, or if you have:
severe kidney disease; or
high levels of phosphorus in your blood (hyperphosphatemia).
To make sure this medicine is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:
a history of kidney stones in the distant past;
cirrhosis or other liver disease;
high blood levels of potassium (hyperkalemia), calcium (hypercalcemia), or sodium (hypernatremia);
heart disease, high blood pressure;
toxemia of pregnancy;
Addison's disease (an adrenal gland disorder);
swelling in your hands or feet;
if you are dehydrated; or
if you take a diuretic or "water pill."
FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether potassium phosphate and sodium phosphate will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using this medicine.
It is not known whether this medicine passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
Potassium phosphate and sodium phosphate should not be given to a child younger than 4 years old without a doctor's advice.
How should I take this medicine?
Follow all directions on your prescription label. Do not take this medicine in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.
Take this medicine with a full glass of water.
Potassium phosphate and sodium phosphate works best if you take it with meals and at bedtime.
While using this medicine, you may need frequent blood or urine tests.
The powder form must be mixed with water before you take it. Mix 1 packet of the powder with about 1/3 cup (2.5 ounces) of water and stir until completely dissolved. Swallow the mixture right away after mixing. Do not save for later use.
The tablet form may need to be dissolved in water, or swallowed whole. Carefully follow any dosing instructions provided with your medicine.
If you have a history of kidney stones, it is possible that you will pass old stones after starting treatment with potassium phosphate and sodium phosphate.
Store at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.
What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.
Overdose symptoms may include numbness or tingly feeling, muscle stiffness or limp feeling, loss of movement, confusion, heavy feeling in your legs, irregular heartbeats, or feeling like you might pass out.
What should I avoid while taking this medicine?
Ask your doctor before using an antacid, and use only the type your doctor recommends. Some antacids can make it harder for your body to absorb potassium phosphate and sodium phosphate.
Avoid taking a vitamin or mineral supplement that contains calcium or vitamin D, unless your doctor tells you to.
Do not use potassium supplements or salt substitutes while you are taking potassium phosphate and sodium phosphate, unless your doctor has told you to.
This medicine side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Call your doctor at once if you have:
severe or ongoing diarrhea;
shortness of breath; or
signs of a kidney problem--little or no urinating; painful or difficult urination; swelling in your feet or ankles; feeling tired or short of breath.
Common side effects may include:
nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, diarrhea;
bone or joint pain;
headache, dizziness, tired feeling;
muscle pain or weakness;
increased thirst; or
numbness or tingly feeling.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
See also: Side effects (in more detail)
What other drugs will affect this medicine?
Other drugs may interact with potassium phosphate and sodium phosphate, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell each of your health care providers about all medicines you use now and any medicine you start or stop using.
More about K-Phos No. 2 (potassium phosphate / sodium phosphate)
Related treatment guides
Where can I get more information?
- Your pharmacist can provide more information about potassium phosphate and sodium phosphate.
- Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.
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Copyright 1996-2012 Cerner Multum, Inc. Version: 2.01. Revision Date: 2014-07-30, 8:13:29 AM.