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# Ezivac Enema
## Overview
Ezivac enema is a combination bowel evacuant containing **sodium phosphate (monobasic sodium phosphate and dibasic sodium phosphate)**. It acts as an osmotic laxative, drawing water into the bowel lumen to stimulate peristalsis and evacuation of the colon.
## Primary Indications
* Relief of occasional constipation.
* Bowel evacuation prior to proctoscopic or sigmoidoscopic examinations or surgery.
## Adult Dosing
* **Standard dose:** One 118 mL (ready-to-use) pre-filled enema unit rectally as a single dose.
* **Maximum:** Do not exceed one dose in a 24-hour period.
## Pediatric Dosing
* **Children 12 years and older:** Same as adult dose (one 118 mL unit).
* **Children 2 to 11 years:** 59 mL (half of a standard unit). Consult specific facility pediatric protocols; typically not recommended for use in children under 2 years of age without specialist clinical oversight.
## Dose Adjustments
* **Renal Impairment:** Use with extreme caution. There is a significant risk of hyperphosphatemia, hypocalcemia, hypernatremia, and acidosis in patients with impaired renal function.
* **Hepatic Impairment:** No specific adjustment, but use with caution in patients with ascites or fluid overload.
## Contraindications
* Hypersensitivity to sodium phosphates or any component of the formulation.
* Presence of bowel obstruction, megacolon, imperforate anus, or inflammatory bowel disease (ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s).
* Known or suspected congestive heart failure.
* Active renal disease or electrolyte imbalance (e.g., hyperphosphatemia).
## Adverse Effects
* **Common:** Rectal irritation, abdominal pain, cramping, nausea.
* **Serious:** Severe electrolyte disturbances (hyperphosphatemia, hypocalcemia, hypernatremia, hypokalemia), dehydration, metabolic acidosis, and rectal mucosal tearing or ischemic proctitis.
## Key Drug Interactions
* **Diuretics:** Increased risk of dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.
* **Calcium Channel Blockers:** Potential for enhanced hyperphosphatemia/hypocalcemia effects.
* **Phosphate-containing products:** Concurrent use significantly increases toxicity risk.
* **Medications requiring absorption in the colon:** May be washed out or have absorption altered if administered shortly after enema use.
## Monitoring
* Monitor for signs of dehydration (tachycardia, hypotension).
* In high-risk patients, monitor serum electrolytes (phosphorus, calcium, sodium, potassium) and creatinine levels post-administration.
* Monitor for signs of tetany (due to hypocalcemia).
## Clinical Pearls
* **Administration:** Ensure the patient is in the left lateral decubitus position (Sims' position) to facilitate proper anatomy flow. Lubricate the applicator tip before insertion.
* **Dehydration Risk:** Ensure patients are instructed to maintain adequate oral fluid intake before and after administration.
* **Duration:** Prolonged use is not recommended; if no evacuation occurs after 20–30 minutes, stop and contact a physician to prevent mucosal damage.
* **Variation:** Always confirm the specific volume/concentration available at your facility, as local protocols may vary regarding pediatric split-dosing.
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**DISCLAIMER:** This information is for educational purposes for healthcare professionals. Clinical practice guidelines vary by institution and country. Always verify current, localized prescribing information, safety alerts, and contraindications via official product labeling or pharmacy-approved resources before administration.