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Phosphorus

Supportive Care

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What is phosphorus?

Phosphorus is a mineral that the body needs to function properly. Staff members take blood samples to check the amount of phosphorus in the body. If the level is too high or too low, the staff may make changes to medicines or fluids that the patient is receiving.

Hypophosphatemia (not enough phosphorus in the blood)

Hypophosphatemia can occur:

  • When your body is not getting enough phosphorus by mouth
  • When your body is not absorbing the phosphorus in the stomach
  • When the level of magnesium in the blood is low
  • When your kidneys are not working well.

Medicines that can cause low phosphorus are diuretics (water pills), sucralfate, cisplatin, and carboplatin.

Staff members can give phosphorus to increase the amount of this mineral in the blood. It is available in these forms:

  • A 250-mg tablet (KPhos®)
  • A 250-mg powder (NeutraPhos®)
  • A clear liquid that can be given into a vein (IV)


Hyperphosphatemia (too much phosphorus in the blood)

Hyperphosphatemia can occur:

  • When your kidneys are not working well
  • If you have decreased parathyroid hormone
  • If you have tumor lysis syndrome (a fast killing of cancer cells) or diabetic ketoacidosis.
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Possible side effects

Possible side effects of hypophosphatemia

  • Muscle weakness or numbness
  • Feeling confused
  • Seizures
  • Decreased appetite
  • Nausea or vomiting

Possible side effects of hyperphosphatemia

  • Muscle spasms
  • Kidney failure
  • Low calcium

Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, hives, itching, chills, fever, headache, muscle ache, shortness of breath, coughing, tightness in the throat, swelling of the face or neck.

Not all patients who take phosphorus will experience these side effects. Common side effects are bolded, but there may be others. Please report all suspected side effects to your doctor or pharmacist.

Find more information on side effects.

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Tips for patients and families

Be sure to discuss all questions and instructions with your doctor or pharmacist. 

Special instructions for hypophosphatemia

  • Neutra Phos® packets must be dissolved in at least 30 ml (2 tablespoons) of liquid.
  • Please talk to the doctor or nurse if you think you are having symptoms of hypophosphatemia
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Always check the medication label. Many medicines look the same. Do not take any new medicine, including over-the counter medicines or supplements, without checking with your doctor or pharmacist. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about what to do in the case of a missed dose, allergic reaction, or medical emergency. 

This information is not intended to be a complete guide and is not a substitute for talking with your provider. Medicine names, appearance, formulas, or availability may vary by clinic location. Always follow the instructions given by your care team.

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