Examples

How It Works

Orthophosphate reduces the amount of calcium in the urine. High levels of calcium in the urine can cause calcium kidney stones.

Why It Is Used

Orthophosphate may be used to treat kidney stones:

• Caused by high levels of calcium in the urine.
• Caused by low levels of phosphate in the urine (renal phosphate leak).
• For which the specific cause cannot be found.

How Well It Works

Some studies show that orthophosphate prevents kidney stones. Other studies have shown no benefit from treatment with orthophosphate. No controlled trials have been done.¹

Side Effects

All medicines have side effects. But many people don't feel the side effects, or they are able to deal with them. Ask your pharmacist about the side effects of each medicine you take. Side effects are also listed in the information that comes with your medicine.

Here are some important things to think about:

• Usually the benefits of the medicine are more important than any minor side effects.
• Side effects may go away after you take the medicine for a while.
• If side effects still bother you and you wonder if you should keep taking the medicine, call your doctor. He or she may be able to lower your dose or change your medicine. Do not suddenly quit taking your medicine unless your doctor tells you to.

Callor other emergency services right away if you have:

• Trouble breathing.
• Hives.
• Swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Call your doctor if you have:

• A fast, slow, or irregular heartbeat.
• Seizures.
• Signs of dehydration.

Common side effects of this medicine include:

• Diarrhea.
• Nausea and vomiting.
• Stomach pain.

See Drug Reference for a full list of side effects. (Drug Reference is not available in all systems.)

What To Think About

Take this medicine with food to help prevent nausea and diarrhea.

Make sure you get enough water when taking this medicine. Try to drink enough water to keep your urine light yellow or clear like water (about 8 to 10 glasses of water a day).

This medicine contains potassium and sodium. If you are on a diet that restricts potassium or sodium, talk with your doctor before taking this medicine.

Taking medicine

Medicine is one of the many tools your doctor has to treat a health problem. Taking medicine as your doctor suggests will improve your health and may prevent future problems. If you don't take your medicines properly, you may be putting your health (and perhaps your life) at risk.

There are many reasons why people have trouble taking their medicine. But in most cases, there is something you can do. For suggestions on how to work around common problems, see the topic Taking Medicines as Prescribed.

Advice for women

If you are pregnant, breast-feeding, or planning to get pregnant, do not use any medicines unless your doctor tells you to. Some medicines can harm your baby. This includes prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, herbs, and supplements. And make sure that all your doctors know that you are pregnant, breast-feeding, or planning to get pregnant.

Checkups

Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.

Complete the new medication information form (PDF)(What is a PDF document?) to help you understand this medication.

References

Credits