Before we get to the medication I need to remind you...
For this installment, I have chosen Methylnaltrexone Subcutaneous
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Relistor
GENERIC NAME(S): METHYLNALTREXONE BROMIDE
Uses: This medication is used to treat constipation caused by narcotic (opiate-type) medication. It blocks the effect of narcotics on the gut without blocking the effect on pain. It belongs to a class of medications called narcotic antagonists.
**Please read this information carefully**
If you have any questions about what is provided here....talk with your doctor or pharmacist please.
- that what I am providing is NOT meant in any way to replace the conversation between you, your doctor, or your pharmacist
- please do not self-diagnose or make medical decisions about this drug without talking with qualified professionals
- the information provided here is the reference sheet you would find at WebMD. During my journey I found this site to be helpful in providing support. All credit for this information belongs to them. I copied it right from their website and I have removed the hyper-links. Please visit their site if you would like to read further.
For this installment, I have chosen Methylnaltrexone Subcutaneous
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Relistor
GENERIC NAME(S): METHYLNALTREXONE BROMIDE
Uses: This medication is used to treat constipation caused by narcotic (opiate-type) medication. It blocks the effect of narcotics on the gut without blocking the effect on pain. It belongs to a class of medications called narcotic antagonists.
**Please read this information carefully**
If you have any questions about what is provided here....talk with your doctor or pharmacist please.
Methylnaltrexone Subcutaneous
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Relistor
GENERIC NAME(S): METHYLNALTREXONE BROMIDE
Uses
This medication is used to treat constipation caused by narcotic (opiate-type) medication. It blocks the effect of narcotics on the gut without blocking the effect on pain. It belongs to a class of medications called narcotic antagonists.
How to use methylnaltrexone subcutaneous
Read the Medication Guide and, if available, the Patient Information Leaflet provided by your pharmacist before you start using methylnaltrexone and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Inject this medication under the skin in the upper arm, abdomen, or thigh. Your doctor might direct you to use this medication once a day on a set schedule, or direct you to use it every other day as needed. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully. Do not use more than once in 24 hours. Do not inject into a muscle or vein.
If you are giving this medication to yourself at home, learn all preparation and usage instructions from your health care professional and the product package. The solution is normally clear and colorless to pale yellow. Before using, check this product visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid. Learn how to store and discard medical supplies safely.
Before injecting each dose, clean the injection site with rubbing alcohol. It is important to change the location of the injection site with each dose to avoid problem areas under the skin.
The dosage is based on your weight, medical condition, and response to treatment. Carefully check that you have drawn the correct dose into the syringe. The markings on the syringe measure the amount of liquid (milliliters/mL), not the amount of medication (milligrams/mg). For example, if your doctor has directed you to use 8 milligrams of medication, draw the liquid up to the 0.4-milliliter mark on the syringe. A 12-milligram dose is 0.6 milliliters. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions or if you are not sure how to measure your dose.
This medication may be used with other laxatives. Ask your doctor if you should continue using your usual medications for constipation. This medication is used only for constipation caused by narcotics. Stop using methylnaltrexone when you stop taking narcotic pain medication unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
This medication works quickly. Most people have a bowel movement within a few minutes to a few hours after using this medication.
Tell your doctor if your condition persists or worsens. If you have severe or persistent diarrhea, stop using this medication and tell your doctor promptly.
Side Effects
Stomach/abdominal pain, nausea, gas, dizziness, fever, or diarrhea may occur. Pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site may also occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist right away.
Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.
Stop using methylnaltrexone and tell your doctor right away if you have severe/persistent diarrhea.
Opiate withdrawal symptoms may occur in some people. Tell your doctor right away if any of these withdrawal symptoms occur: sweating, chills, abdominal cramps, diarrhea, mental/mood changes (such as anxiety, confusion, extreme sleepiness, visual hallucinations), yawning.
This drug may rarely cause a serious tear in the stomach or intestinal wall (perforation). If you notice any of the following unlikely but serious side effects, stop using this medication and get medical help right away: severe/persistent/worsening pain in the stomach/abdomen, fever, dizziness/fainting, nausea/vomiting.
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any of the following symptoms of a serious allergic reaction: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
METHYLNALTREXONE SUBCUTANEOUS Side Effects List by likelihood and severity
The following side effects are associated with methylnaltrexone subcutaneous:
Common side effects of methylnaltrexone subcutaneous:
Diarrhea Less Severe
Dizzy Less Severe
Feel Like Throwing Up Less Severe
Gas Less Severe
Stomach Cramps Less Severe
Infrequent side effects of methylnaltrexone subcutaneous:
Chills Less Severe
Not Feeling Well Less Severe
Problems with Muscles that cause Goose Bumps Less Severe
Temporary Redness of Face and Neck Less Severe
Rare side effects of methylnaltrexone subcutaneous:
A Rupture in the Wall of the Stomach or Intestine Severe
Severe Diarrhea Severe
Excessive Sweating Less Severe
Throwing Up Less Severe
Precautions
Before using methylnaltrexone, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: stomach/bowel blockage (gastrointestinal obstruction), kidney disease, stomach/intestinal ulcers or tumors, bowel disease (such as Crohn's, diverticulitis).
This drug may make you dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do any activity that requires alertness until you are sure you can perform such activities safely. Limit alcoholic beverages.
To lower your risk of dizziness and lightheadedness, get up slowly when rising from a sitting or lying position.
Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist that you are using this medication.
During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed.
It is not known if this medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Interactions
Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.
Overdose
If overdose is suspected, contact a poison control center or emergency room right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center.
Notes
Do not share this medication with others.
Missed Dose
For the best possible benefit, it is important to receive each scheduled dose of this medication as directed. If you miss a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist right away to establish a new dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Storage
Store at room temperature away from light and moisture. Do not freeze. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medications away from children and pets.
If you have drawn the medication into the syringe but are not able to use it right away, you may store it at room temperature for 24 hours. Discard after 24 hours. Each vial is for a single use only. Discard any unused medication remaining in the vial after removing your dose.
Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.
Information last revised October 2015. Copyright(c) 2015 First Databank, Inc.
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Relistor
GENERIC NAME(S): METHYLNALTREXONE BROMIDE
Uses
This medication is used to treat constipation caused by narcotic (opiate-type) medication. It blocks the effect of narcotics on the gut without blocking the effect on pain. It belongs to a class of medications called narcotic antagonists.
How to use methylnaltrexone subcutaneous
Read the Medication Guide and, if available, the Patient Information Leaflet provided by your pharmacist before you start using methylnaltrexone and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Inject this medication under the skin in the upper arm, abdomen, or thigh. Your doctor might direct you to use this medication once a day on a set schedule, or direct you to use it every other day as needed. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully. Do not use more than once in 24 hours. Do not inject into a muscle or vein.
If you are giving this medication to yourself at home, learn all preparation and usage instructions from your health care professional and the product package. The solution is normally clear and colorless to pale yellow. Before using, check this product visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid. Learn how to store and discard medical supplies safely.
Before injecting each dose, clean the injection site with rubbing alcohol. It is important to change the location of the injection site with each dose to avoid problem areas under the skin.
The dosage is based on your weight, medical condition, and response to treatment. Carefully check that you have drawn the correct dose into the syringe. The markings on the syringe measure the amount of liquid (milliliters/mL), not the amount of medication (milligrams/mg). For example, if your doctor has directed you to use 8 milligrams of medication, draw the liquid up to the 0.4-milliliter mark on the syringe. A 12-milligram dose is 0.6 milliliters. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions or if you are not sure how to measure your dose.
This medication may be used with other laxatives. Ask your doctor if you should continue using your usual medications for constipation. This medication is used only for constipation caused by narcotics. Stop using methylnaltrexone when you stop taking narcotic pain medication unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
This medication works quickly. Most people have a bowel movement within a few minutes to a few hours after using this medication.
Tell your doctor if your condition persists or worsens. If you have severe or persistent diarrhea, stop using this medication and tell your doctor promptly.
Side Effects
Stomach/abdominal pain, nausea, gas, dizziness, fever, or diarrhea may occur. Pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site may also occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist right away.
Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.
Stop using methylnaltrexone and tell your doctor right away if you have severe/persistent diarrhea.
Opiate withdrawal symptoms may occur in some people. Tell your doctor right away if any of these withdrawal symptoms occur: sweating, chills, abdominal cramps, diarrhea, mental/mood changes (such as anxiety, confusion, extreme sleepiness, visual hallucinations), yawning.
This drug may rarely cause a serious tear in the stomach or intestinal wall (perforation). If you notice any of the following unlikely but serious side effects, stop using this medication and get medical help right away: severe/persistent/worsening pain in the stomach/abdomen, fever, dizziness/fainting, nausea/vomiting.
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any of the following symptoms of a serious allergic reaction: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
METHYLNALTREXONE SUBCUTANEOUS Side Effects List by likelihood and severity
The following side effects are associated with methylnaltrexone subcutaneous:
Common side effects of methylnaltrexone subcutaneous:
Diarrhea Less Severe
Dizzy Less Severe
Feel Like Throwing Up Less Severe
Gas Less Severe
Stomach Cramps Less Severe
Infrequent side effects of methylnaltrexone subcutaneous:
Chills Less Severe
Not Feeling Well Less Severe
Problems with Muscles that cause Goose Bumps Less Severe
Temporary Redness of Face and Neck Less Severe
Rare side effects of methylnaltrexone subcutaneous:
A Rupture in the Wall of the Stomach or Intestine Severe
Severe Diarrhea Severe
Excessive Sweating Less Severe
Throwing Up Less Severe
Precautions
Before using methylnaltrexone, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: stomach/bowel blockage (gastrointestinal obstruction), kidney disease, stomach/intestinal ulcers or tumors, bowel disease (such as Crohn's, diverticulitis).
This drug may make you dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do any activity that requires alertness until you are sure you can perform such activities safely. Limit alcoholic beverages.
To lower your risk of dizziness and lightheadedness, get up slowly when rising from a sitting or lying position.
Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist that you are using this medication.
During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed.
It is not known if this medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Interactions
Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.
Overdose
If overdose is suspected, contact a poison control center or emergency room right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center.
Notes
Do not share this medication with others.
Missed Dose
For the best possible benefit, it is important to receive each scheduled dose of this medication as directed. If you miss a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist right away to establish a new dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Storage
Store at room temperature away from light and moisture. Do not freeze. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medications away from children and pets.
If you have drawn the medication into the syringe but are not able to use it right away, you may store it at room temperature for 24 hours. Discard after 24 hours. Each vial is for a single use only. Discard any unused medication remaining in the vial after removing your dose.
Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.
Information last revised October 2015. Copyright(c) 2015 First Databank, Inc.
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