Visicol, a prescription oral sodium phosphate commonly used as a bowel cleanser prior to a colonoscopy, has been linked to a type of kidney failure known as acute phosphate nephropathy. Also referred to as acute nephrocacinosis, acute phosphate nephropathy occurs when calcium-phosphate crystals deposit in the renal tubules. In some cases, this type of Visicol kidney failure can lead to permanent kidney impairment and/or death.

To date the FDA has confirmed that at least 21 people have developed acute phosphate nephropathy after using oral sodium phosphates like Visicol. In December 2008, the FDA announced that a black box warning would be added to prescription oral sodium phosphates, such as Visicol and OsmoPrep, to notify consumers about the risk of kidney failure. At that time, the FDA also expressed concern about the safety of over-the-counter oral sodium phosphates when used in larger doses for colonoscopy prep and indicated that these products should only be available by prescription.

Visicol Kidney Failure Symptoms

In the beginning, kidney failure may not produce any symptoms.

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As kidney function decreases, however, lethargy, weakness, shortness of breath, and generalized swelling may occur. These symptoms are related to the kidneys’ inability to regulate water and electrolyte balances, to clear waste products from the body, and to promote red blood cell production.

Visicol Kidney Failure Risk Factors

According to the FDA, individuals with an increased risk of developing Visicol kidney failure include people who:

  • are over age 55
  • are hypovolemic or have decreased intravascular volume
  • have baseline kidney disease, bowel obstruction, or active colitis
  • are using medications that affect renal perfusion or function (such as diuretics, angiotensin converting enzyme [ACE] inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers [ARBs], and possibly nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs [NSAIDs])

Visicol Kidney Failure Lawyer

If you or a loved one has developed Visicol kidney failure or other serious Visicol side effects, you may be entitled to file a Visicol lawsuit seeking compensation for your medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages, and more.

To learn more about your legal rights and options, contact our law firm today for a free and confidential case evaluation.

Published November 17, 2011 by