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Many patients who take chronic prescription pain medications, specifically opioids, experience the unpleasant side effect of constipation. The FDA recently approved a new medication that works in the body to decrease this undesired effect. Here is a little more information about this new drug that should be available this month.
How does RelistorTM work?
Relistor acts primarily in the intestine, blocking one of the pain receptors responsible for the constipation side effect. It is important to note that the drug does not act in the central nervous system (or brain) so pain relief from the medication is still achieved.
Who should take RelistorTM?
The drug in intended to treat opioid-induced constipation in patients with advanced illness currently in hospice care. Patients should try laxative therapy first, receiving insufficient constipation relief.
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Who should NOT take RelistorTM?
Patients who have known or suspected gastrointestinal obstruction should not use this medication.
How do you take RelistorTM?
Relistor is administered as an injection in the skin of the upper arm, abdomen, or thigh. A dose is usually administered every other day. The drug should not be administered more than once in a 24-hour period. Most patients experience relief of constipation within minutes to hours of the injection, so patients are advised to stay close to the restroom after administration of the drug. If you stop taking any pain medication, be sure to ask your physician if you should continue taking RelistorTM.
What are the possible side effects?
Common side effects include abdominal pain, gas, nausea, dizziness
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and diarrhea. If severe diarrhea, vomiting, nausea or abdominal pain occurs while taking RelistorTM, consider discontinuing the medication until you can talk to a health care professional.
How should you store RelistorTM?
You can keep RelistorTM at room temperature or in the refrigerator, but do not freeze the medication. Store the medication away from light until you are ready to use it.
*For additional information talk with your physician or pharmacist. You may also find helpful information on this topic by visiting www.Relistor.com.
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