Electrolyte effects of the sodium phosphate enema

Summary and Conclusions In 44 measurements on 39 subjects the loss of potassium and chloride induced by hypertonic sodium phosphate enemas was too small to be clinically significant. Retention of sodium, however, was great enough (35 mEq. or 810 mg., equivalent to 2 gm. of sodium chloride) to make it an item of definite significance in patients on a low-sodium regimen. Physicians should be aware of the biochemical hazards of large volume enemas and of sodium-containing enemas. These include water intoxication, potassium depletion, and possible absorption of sodium.