Glycophos (Sodium Glycerophosphate Pentahydrate)

Glycophos is indicated for clinical situations where phosphate repletion is required through the intravenous route.

• Treatment of hypophosphatemia associated with critical illness, surgery, or renal replacement therapy.
• Supplementation of phosphate in patients receiving total parenteral nutrition (TPN) who have limited oral intake.
• Electrolyte replacement in patients with phosphate depletion due to prolonged fasting, severe burns, or extensive trauma.
• Support of metabolic processes that depend on phosphate, such as ATP synthesis and cellular signaling.
• Adjunctive therapy during dialysis or continuous renal replacement therapy when phosphate losses are anticipated.

Adverse reactions to Glycophos are generally related to the infusion of phosphate and sodium and may vary in frequency and severity.

Common

• Transient hyperphosphatemia leading to mild serum phosphate elevation.
• Temporary hypernatremia causing mild increase in serum sodium.
• Local irritation or pain at the injection site.
• Mild gastrointestinal discomfort such as nausea.

Serious

• Severe hyperphosphatemia that may precipitate calcium‑phosphate deposition in tissues.
• Acute metabolic alkalosis resulting from rapid sodium load.

When prescribing Glycophos, clinicians should evaluate patient-specific factors and monitor laboratory values to minimize risks.

• Assess baseline serum phosphate, calcium, and sodium levels before initiating therapy.
• Adjust dose in patients with renal impairment or reduced glomerular filtration rate.
• Avoid rapid infusion rates to prevent sudden shifts in electrolyte balance.
• Monitor cardiac rhythm in patients with existing electrolyte abnormalities.
• Use caution in individuals with a history of hypercalcemia or metastatic calcification.
• Discontinue or reduce infusion if serum phosphate exceeds the therapeutic target.

Glycophos may interact with other medications that influence electrolyte balance or renal function, requiring careful management.

Avoid

• Concomitant administration of calcium‑containing solutions that can precipitate calcium‑phosphate complexes.
• High‑dose vitamin D analogues that increase intestinal phosphate absorption.

Use with caution

• Loop diuretics, which may enhance renal phosphate loss and alter serum levels.
• ACE inhibitors or ARBs, which can affect renal handling of electrolytes.
• Parenteral nutrition formulations containing phosphate, to avoid cumulative excess.