Methylnaltrexone
Methylnaltrexone
Methylnaltrexone (pronounced: meth-ill-nal-TREX-own), also known by its brand name Relistor, is a medication used to treat opioid-induced constipation.
Etymology
The term "Methylnaltrexone" is derived from its chemical structure, which is a methylated derivative of naltrexone, an opioid antagonist.
Usage
Methylnaltrexone is used when patients taking opioids for pain relief suffer from constipation, a common side effect of opioid usage. It works by blocking the action of opioids in the gut without affecting the pain-relieving effects in the brain.
Administration and Dosage
Methylnaltrexone is administered subcutaneously, usually once daily. The dosage is determined by the patient's body weight and the severity of their constipation.
Side Effects
Common side effects of Methylnaltrexone include abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhea, and sweating. Serious side effects may include severe or persistent diarrhea, symptoms of opioid withdrawal, and allergic reactions.
Related Terms
- Opioid: A class of drugs that includes the illegal drug heroin, synthetic opioids such as fentanyl, and pain relievers available legally by prescription.
- Naltrexone: An opioid antagonist used primarily in the management of alcohol dependence and opioid dependence.
- Constipation: A common condition that affects people of all ages. It can mean that you're not passing stools regularly or you're unable to completely empty your bowel.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Methylnaltrexone
- Wikipedia's article - Methylnaltrexone
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