Movantik (Naloxegol)

Description

Indications

Naloxegol is utilized to address constipation triggered by opiate pain relievers in adults experiencing chronic pain unrelated to cancer. Belonging to a category of medications known as peripherally acting mu-opioid receptor antagonists, naloxegol shields the bowel from the impact of opiate medications.

Uses and Dosage

Take this medication orally on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal, following your doctor’s instructions, typically once daily in the morning.

If swallowing the medication whole is challenging, you may crush the tablets into a powder, mix them with 4 ounces (120 milliliters) of water, and drink the mixture immediately. Then, refill the glass with another 4 ounces of water, stir, and drink.

If administering this medication through a tube into the stomach (nasogastric tube), consult your healthcare professional for detailed instructions on proper mixing and administration.

The dosage depends on your medical condition, response to treatment, and other medications you’re taking. Inform your doctor and pharmacist about all products you use, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter drugs, and herbal products.

Take this medication regularly for maximum benefit. To help you remember, take it at the same time each day.

Do not increase your dose or use this drug more frequently or for a longer duration than prescribed. Doing so won’t accelerate improvement, but it will heighten the risk of side effects.

Naloxegol is specifically for opioid-induced constipation. Discontinue use when you stop taking opioid pain medication unless directed otherwise by your doctor.

While using this medication, avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice unless your doctor or pharmacist advises it’s safe. Grapefruit can increase the likelihood of side effects. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

Cease the use of other laxatives before starting naloxegol treatment. Your doctor may advise other laxatives if your condition doesn’t improve after 3 days of naloxegol treatment. Follow your doctor’s instructions meticulously.

Inform your doctor if your constipation persists or worsens.

Side Effects

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:

• diarrhea
• nausea
• gas
• stomach pain
• vomiting
• headache
• sweating
• chills
• anxiety
• irritability
• yawning

Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:

• severe or worsening stomach pain and diarrhea
• rash; hives; swelling of the face, lips, throat, tongue, hands, or feet

Caution

• Before starting naloxegol, inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have any allergies to it or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients that could trigger allergic reactions or other issues.
• Prior to using this medication, disclose your medical history to your doctor or pharmacist, especially if you have a history of stomach/intestinal blockage, stomach/intestinal ulcers or tumors, bowel disease such as Crohn’s or diverticulitis, or kidney disease.
• During pregnancy, naloxegol should only be used when absolutely necessary. This medication may induce opioid withdrawal symptoms in pregnant women and their unborn babies. Discuss the potential risks and benefits with your doctor.
• It’s unclear whether this medication passes into breast milk. Naloxegol may cause opioid withdrawal symptoms in nursing infants. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

Form and Strength

Movantik is available in the following forms and strengths:

• Movantik tablet:
  • 12.5 mg
  • 25 mg

FAQ

Is Movantik a laxative?

Movantik helps with laxation, which is the medical term for having a bowel movement. Unlike traditional laxatives, which are typically helpful for constipation due to various causes, Movantik only works for constipation due to opioid pain medications because it targets opioid receptors in the intestines.

How quickly does Movantik work?

In the clinical studies, some people were able to have a bowel movement 6 to 12 hours after taking 25 mg of Movantik. It’s usually recommended that you give this medication about 3 days to work before using other laxatives again.

Resources

1. https://www.goodrx.com/movantik/what-is#faqs
2. https://www.rxlist.com/movantik-drug.htm#indications
3. https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/naloxegol-oral-route/description/drg-20122533
4. https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-167690/movantik-oral/details
5. https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a615016.html
6. https://www.drugs.com/movantik.html#uses