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Phosphate supplements are considered safe if taken as prescribed. Taking any supplement, however, may have potential side effects. These side effects may be common or severe.
Common Side Effects
- • Nausea and vomiting
- • Diarrhea
- • Stomach pain or upset
- • Increased thirst
- • Bone, joint, or muscle pain
Severe Side Effects
Allergies to phosphate are rare, but it's still important to call your provider or seek emergency care if you experience any of the following after taking a phosphate supplement:
- • Rash
- • Hives
- • Shortness of breath
- • Rapid heartbeat
- • Swelling of the face, throat, or tongue
These could be signs of a potentially life-threatening, whole-body reaction known as anaphylaxis.
Precautions
People with chronic kidney disease may need to avoid phosphate supplements. Since the kidneys are less able to clear phosphate from the body, the mineral may accumulate and lead to hyperphosphatemia (excessively high phosphorus levels). Symptoms may include:
- • Rash
- • Itching
- • Muscle cramps
- • Spasms
- • Bone or joint pain
- • Numbness and tingling around the mouth
Excess phosphorus can also affect urine acidity and lead to the dislodgement of a previously undiagnosed kidney stone. Outside of severe kidney dysfunction, hyperphosphatemia is very rare. It is more associated with the failure to clear phosphorus from the body rather than with the use of phosphate supplements. *
