Generic name: sodium biphosphate and sodium phosphate (rectal) [ SOE-dee-um-bye-FOS-fate-and-SOE-dee-um-FOS-fate ]
Brand names: Disposable Enema, Fleet Enema
Drug class: Laxatives

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Jun 6, 2024. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is rectal Fleet Enema?

Fleet Enema are forms of phosphorus.

Fleet Enema is a combination medicine used in adults and children to treat constipation and to clean the bowel before colon surgery, x-rays, or endoscopy examinations.

Fleet Enema may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Rectal Fleet Enema side effects

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

The medicine may cause serious side effects. Stop using the medicine and call your doctor at once if you have:

• no bowel movement within 30 minutes after use;

• rectal bleeding or bright red bowel movements; or

• dehydration symptoms--dizziness, vomiting, thirst, little or no urinating.

Common side effects of Fleet Enema may include:

• rectal discomfort.

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.

Warnings

You should not use Fleet Enema without a doctor's advice if you have kidney disease, heart problems, or constipation with stomach cramps, nausea, or vomiting.

Using too much of this medicine can cause rare but life-threatening side effects on your kidneys and heart.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use this medicine without a doctor's advice if you have:

• kidney disease;

• heart problems; or

• constipation with stomach cramps, nausea, or vomiting.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if this medicine is safe to use if:

• you've had a sudden change in bowel habits during the past 2 weeks or longer;

• you've used any laxative within the past 7 days;

• you are on a low-salt diet; or

• you are 55 or older.

Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Never use an adult-strength enema in a child younger than 12 years old. Do not use this medicine in a child younger than 2 years old.

How should I use rectal Fleet Enema?

Using too much of Fleet Enema can cause rare but life-threatening side effects on your kidneys and heart.

Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor.

Do not take the rectal enema by mouth. It is for use only in your rectum.

When using this medicine in a child 2 to 11 years old, use only a formula that is specially made for children.

Read and carefully follow any Instructions for Use provided with your medicine. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you do not understand these instructions.

Fleet Enema should cause you to have a bowel movement within 1 to 5 minutes.

Do not use more than 1 enema in any 24-hour period. If you do not get any results within 30 minutes after using this medicine, call your doctor before using another dose.

Do not use this medicine for longer than 3 days without medical advice.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Each disposable enema is for one use only.

Related/similar drugs

MiraLAX, docusate, bisacodyl, lactulose, erythromycin, Colace, senna, polyethylene glycol 3350, Dulcolax

What happens if I miss a dose?

Fleet Enema does not have a daily dosing schedule. Do not use more than 1 enema in any 24-hour period. Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after using this medicine.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222, especially if anyone has accidentally swallowed the medicine.

What should I avoid while taking rectal Fleet Enema?

Avoid using any other laxatives with Fleet Enema, unless your doctor tells you to.

What other drugs will affect rectal Fleet Enema?

Other drugs may affect Fleet Enema, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all your current medicines and any medicine you start or stop using.

Frequently asked questions

• Fleet Enema - What is the difference between constipation and fecal impaction?

Further information

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.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

Copyright 1996-2024 Cerner Multum, Inc. Version: 3.01.