The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has asked those who use laxatives to help ease their constipation problem to beware before using the same.

Taking cognizance of the recent deaths due to the laxatives, the FDA has issued a warning saying these products are potentially dangerous if not taken under proper medical supervision.

The FDA has issued the warning on its website which says, “These products are potentially dangerous if dosing instructions or warnings on the Drug Facts label are not properly followed or when there are certain coexisting health conditions.”

13 deaths were registered and few other cases were reported with serious side effects associated with the use of sodium phosphate laxatives like Fleet or generic versions of the phospho-soda or enema product.

The FDA has strongly recommended those adults who are over age 55 and also those who suffer kidney trouble, heart problems and dehydration to consult their doctors before using a Fleet product as they are on increased risk of dangerous side effects.