FDA issues warning about certain laxatives

Silver Spring, MD – Exceeding the recommended dose of some over-the-counter laxatives could damage the kidneys and heart, warns the Food and Drug Administration.

In a safety announcement issued Jan. 8, FDA cautioned that sodium phosphate laxatives should be used as a single dose taken once a day, and the products should not be used for more than three days. Consumers who do not have a bowel movement after taking a dose should not take a second dose.

FDA also warned against giving the oral version of the drugs to children 5 and younger without a doctor’s permission, and never giving the rectal form to children younger than 2.