Virt-Phos 250 Neutral

Phosphorus is a naturally occurring substance that is vital for every cell in the body. Most of the phosphorus in the body is found in the bones. The potassium and sodium versions of phosphorus are known as phosphates.

Virt-Phos 250 Neutral is a combination medicine that helps make the urine more acidic to prevent kidney stones.

Virt-Phos 250 Neutral may also be used for other reasons not mentioned in this medication guide.

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.

Virt-Phos 250 Neutral 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 Virt-Phos 250 Neutral.

Store at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.

You should not take Virt-Phos 250 Neutral if you have severe kidney disease or high levels of phosphorus in your body.

You should not take Virt-Phos 250 Neutral 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;
• kidney disease;
• 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);
• breathing problems;
• pancreas disorder;
• thyroid 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 Virt-Phos 250 Neutral 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.

Virt-Phos 250 Neutral should not be given to a child younger than 4 years old without a doctor's advice.

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Virt-Phos 250 Neutral may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor immediately if you have:

• severe or ongoing diarrhea;
• seizures (convulsion);
• 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 of Virt-Phos 250 Neutral may include:

• nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, diarrhea;
• bone or joint pain;
• headache, dizziness, feeling tired;
• muscle pain or weakness;
• increased thirst; or
• numbness or a tingling 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.

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose. Do not take extra medicine to compensate for the missed dose.

Seek emergency medical help or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

Signs of an overdose may include numbness or a tingling sensation, muscle stiffness or a limp feeling, loss of movement, confusion, a heavy feeling in your legs, irregular heartbeats, or feeling faint.

Ask your doctor before using an antacid, and only use the type your doctor recommends. Some antacids can make it harder for your body to absorb Virt-Phos 250 Neutral.

Avoid taking a vitamin or mineral supplement that contains calcium or vitamin D, unless your doctor advises you to.

Do not use potassium supplements or salt substitutes while you are taking Virt-Phos 250 Neutral, unless your doctor has instructed you to.

Other drugs may interact with potassium phosphate and sodium phosphate, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Inform all your health care providers about all the medicines you are currently using and any medicine you begin or stop using.