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People with struvite stones, urinary tract infections, bleeding disorders, or kidney damage should not use these products. Patients who take citrate supplements containing potassium should not take any other medications that either contain this mineral or prevent its loss (such as so-called potassium-sparing diuretics). People with peptic ulcers should avoid citrate supplements, or discuss using non-tablet forms with their doctor.
Phosphates. Phosphates help reduce the breakdown of bone that releases calcium into the bloodstream. They are also involved in the kidney's reabsorption of calcium from the urine.
Phosphate compounds:
- Neutral (nonacidic) sodium or potassium phosphate (such as K-Phos, Neutral, and Neutra-Phos) is usually taken four times a day after meals to prevent kidney stones, unless otherwise directed by the doctor. Diarrhea is a possible side effect.
- Cellulose phosphate (Calcibind) is recommended only for severe hypercalciuria that is associated with recurrent calcium stones and caused by excessive absorption of calcium from the intestines. This drug may increase oxalate levels and decrease magnesium levels, which can lead to different kinds of stones. Taking magnesium supplements and reducing dietary oxalates, calcium, and ascorbic acid may help offset these risks. Cellulose phosphate may also cause bloating.
Avoid acidic forms of phosphate, because they increase the risks for both hypocitraturia and hypercalciuria.
Cholestyramine (such as Questran and Questran Light) is a drug used to reduce cholesterol levels. However, because it binds with oxalate in the intestine, it is also used to reduce high oxalate levels in urine (hyperoxaluria). The drug usually comes in a powder that is dissolved in liquid. Bloating and constipation are common side effects of this drug. Cholestyramine also interferes with other medications, including digoxin (Lanoxin) and warfarin, and it may contribute to calcium loss and osteoporosis. In order to prevent such interactions, take other drugs 1 hour before, or 4 - 6 hours after taking cholestyramine.
Long-term use of cholestyramine may cause deficiencies of vitamins A, D, E, and K. Vitamin supplements may be necessary.
Medications for Uric Acid Stones
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Review Date: 06/08/2010
Reviewed By: Reviewed by: Harvey Simon, MD, Editor-in-Chief, Associate Professor
of Medicine, Harvard Medical School; Physician, Massachusetts
General Hospital. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical
Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)
