Relistor

Generic name: Methylnaltrexone bromide

What is Relistor?

Relistor is used to treat constipation caused by prescription pain medicines called opioids in patients receiving supportive care for their advanced illness when other medicines for constipation called laxatives have not worked well enough.

What is the most important information I should know about Relistor?

Discontinue Relistor if you develop severe diarrhea.

Who should not take Relistor?

Do not take Relistor if you have known or suspected mechanical obstruction of the intestines.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Relistor?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Relistor. Also talk to your doctor about your complete medical history especially if you are pregnant or breast feeding.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Adults: The recommended dosage of Relistor is 8 milligrams (mg) for patients weighing 84 to <136 pounds or 12 mg for patients weighing 136-251 pounds. Patients whose weight falls outside these ranges should be dosed at 0.15 mg/kg.

How should I take Relistor?

Take Relistor exactly as your doctor tells you. Relistor is given by an injection under the skin of the upper arm, abdomen, or thigh.

Do not take more one dose in 24-hour period.

Remove the cap from the Relistor vial, clean the stopper with an alcohol wipe. Pull the plunger of the syringe to the line that matches the dose prescribed and insert the needle into the vial, push down the plunger. Now turn the vial upside down and pull back on the plunger to the mark that matches the dose prescribed. Then inject the dose as described above.

What should I avoid while taking Relistor?

Do not use Relistor vial for more than one time. Don't reuse syringes or needles.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Relistor?

If Relistor is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Relistor with other medications.

What are the possible side effects of Relistor?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: abdominal pain, gas, nausea, dizziness, diarrhea.

Can I receive Relistor if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

Relistor should be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Relistor?

If you miss a dose of Relistor, skip that dose. Take your next dose at your usual time. Do not take 2 doses at one time.

How should I store Relistor?

Store at room temperature. Do not freeze and keep away from light. If Relistor has been drawn into a syringe and you are unable to use the medicine right away, keep the syringe at room temperature for up to 24 hrs.