Synonyms/Common Names/Related Substances:

• Aluminum phosphate, anhydrous sodium phosphate, bone ash, bone phosphate, calcium orthophosphate, calcium phosphate, calcium phosphate dibasic anhydrous, calcium phosphate dibasic dihydrate, calcium phosphate tribasic, colestilan, dibasic potassium phosphate, dibasic sodium phosphate, dicalcium phosphate, dicalcium phosphate, dipotassium hydrogen orthophosphate, dipotassium monophosphate, dipotassium phosphate, disodium hydrogen orthophosphate, disodium hydrogen orthophosphate dodecahydrate, disodium hydrogen phosphate, disodium phosphate, elemental phosphorus, MCI-196, monobasic potassium phosphate, monobasic sodium phosphate, neutral calcium phosphate, phosphate of soda, phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidylserine, potassium acid phosphate, potassium biphosphate, potassium dihydrogen orthophosphate, potassium phosphate, precipitated calcium phosphate, sevelamer (Renagel®), sodium orthophosphate, sodium phosphate, tertiary calcium phosphate, tribasic sodium phosphate, tricalcium phosphate, whitlockite.
• Note: The term "phosphates" in this monograph refers to anhydrous sodium acid phosphate, dibasic sodium phosphate, dipotassium phosphate anhydrous, monobasic potassium acid phosphate, monobasic sodium phosphate, phosphorus, potassium phosphate, sodium biphosphate, and sodium phosphate. Phosphate salts should not be confused with toxic substances such as organophosphates, or with tribasic sodium phosphates and tribasic potassium phosphates, which are strongly alkaline.

Clinical Bottom Line/Effectiveness

Brief Background:

• Phosphorus is a mineral found in many foods, such as milk, cheese, grains, dried beans, peas, colas, nuts, and peanut butter. Phosphate is the most common form of phosphorus in foods and in the body. In humans, phosphate is the most abundant intracellular anion. It is critical for the formation of DNA and RNA, energy storage and metabolism (as adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and for phosphorylation), the utilization of many B-complex vitamins, the buffering of body fluids, kidney excretion of hydrogen ions, proper muscle and nerve function, and maintaining calcium balance; and in cell membranes (phospholipids). Phosphorus is vital to the formation of bones and teeth, and healthy bones and soft tissues require calcium and phosphorus to grow and develop throughout life. Inadequate intake of dietary phosphate may lead to hypophosphatemia, which may lead to long-term, potentially serious complications. Conversely, excess phosphate intake may lead to hyperphosphatemia (high blood phosphorus levels), which may occur particularly in people with impaired kidney function and may lead to potentially serious electrolyte imbalances, adverse effects, or death.
• In adults, phosphorus makes up approximately 1% of total body weight. It is present in every cell of the body, although 85% of the body's phosphorus is found in the bones and teeth.
• Phosphates are used clinically to treat hypophosphatemia and hypercalcemia (high blood calcium levels), as saline laxatives, and in the management of calcium-based kidney stones. They may also be of some benefit to patients with vitamin D-resistant rickets, multiple sclerosis, or diabetic ketoacidosis.
• Based on the potential for hyperphosphatemia, as well as other electrolyte disturbances such as hypocalcemia, hypomagnesemia, or hypokalemia, phosphorus supplementation should be done only under medical supervision.

Dosing/Toxicology

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Precautions/Contraindications

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Interactions

Most herbs and supplements have not been thoroughly tested for interactions with other herbs, supplements, drugs, or foods. The interactions listed below are based on reports in scientific publications, laboratory experiments, or traditional use. You should always read product labels. If you have a medical condition, or are taking other drugs, herbs, or supplements, you should speak with a qualified healthcare provider before starting a new therapy.

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Mechanism of Action

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History

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Evidence Table

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Evidence Discussion

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Products Studied

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Author Information

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References

Natural Standard developed the above evidence-based information based on a thorough systematic review of the available scientific articles. For comprehensive information about alternative and complementary therapies on the professional level, go to www.naturalstandard.com. Selected references are listed below.

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