Methylnaltrexone: Treatment for Opioid-Induced Constipation
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
2-1-2011
Description
Opioids have become the gold standard for treatment of severe pain in advanced disease, but adverse effects can affect the quality of life. Opioid-induced bowel dysfunction can lead to refractory constipation. Methylnaltrexone bromide is a peripherally acting mu antagonist and is indicated for the treatment of opioid-induced constipation in patients with advanced illness, when response to standard laxative therapy has been inefficacious. This pharmacology update will review the etiology, pathophysiology, and treatment of opioid-induced constipation, focused on methylnaltrexone as a novel treatment for refractory cases.
Citation Information
Licup, Nerissa; and Baumrucker, Steven J.. 2011. Methylnaltrexone: Treatment for Opioid-Induced Constipation. American Journal of Hospice and Palliative Medicine. Vol.28(1). 59-61. https://doi.org/10.1177/1049909110373507 PMID: 20801917 ISSN: 1049-9091
