Understanding Relistor and Its Purpose
Relistor, known generically as methylnaltrexone bromide, treats opioid-induced constipation (OIC) in adults. It is a peripherally acting mu-opioid receptor antagonist (PAMORA). Opioids cause constipation by binding to receptors in the gut, slowing movement. Relistor blocks these gut receptors to counteract constipation without affecting the pain relief provided by opioids in the brain. It comes as oral tablets and a subcutaneous injection.
Common Side Effects of Relistor
Common side effects vary slightly depending on the form of Relistor and the reason for opioid use.
For chronic non-cancer pain, common side effects can include abdominal pain, diarrhea, and headache. For advanced illness receiving palliative care, common injection side effects are abdominal pain, gas, nausea, dizziness, and diarrhea. These GI side effects are generally mild to moderate.
Serious Side Effects and Warnings
Serious side effects, though less common, require immediate medical attention.
- GI Perforation: Tears in the stomach or intestinal wall have occurred, with higher risk in patients with pre-existing GI conditions like ulcers, Crohn's, diverticulitis, or malignancies. Report severe or worsening abdominal pain immediately.
- Severe Diarrhea: Stop Relistor and contact your doctor if diarrhea is severe or persistent.
- Opioid Withdrawal: As an opioid antagonist, Relistor can cause withdrawal symptoms like sweating, chills, diarrhea, stomach pain, anxiety, and yawning. Risk may be higher with a compromised blood-brain barrier.
- Allergic Reactions: Rare but serious allergic reactions like rash, swelling, and difficulty breathing need immediate medical help.
Relistor is not for patients with known or suspected mechanical gastrointestinal obstruction due to perforation risk.
Comparison of Side Effects: Tablets vs. Injection
Side effect rates can differ between tablets and injections in chronic non-cancer pain patients based on clinical trials. A table comparing the side effects can be found on {Link: RELISTOR FAQs https://www.relistor.com/opioid-induced-constipation-faqs}.
Patient Counseling and Management
Discontinue other laxatives before starting Relistor and resume them if needed after three days. Be near a toilet after administration as a bowel movement can occur quickly (within 30-60 minutes). Take tablets on an empty stomach with water, at least 30 minutes before the first meal. Inform your doctor about kidney/liver problems, GI issues (ulcers, Crohn's), pregnancy, or breastfeeding, as Relistor can cause withdrawal in babies.
Conclusion
Relistor is effective for OIC by targeting gut receptors. Understanding what are the side effects of Relistor are is important. Common effects are mainly GI, but serious risks like GI perforation and opioid withdrawal exist. Discuss symptoms and medical history with your healthcare provider for safe use.
For more detailed information, you can review the official prescribing information on the FDA's website: RELISTOR (methylnaltrexone bromide) Label
