From the Research
Relestor (methylnaltrexone bromide) dosing is not directly addressed in the provided evidence, which primarily focuses on chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting, but based on general medical knowledge, Relestor is typically dosed at 12 mg subcutaneously once daily for opioid-induced constipation in adults with advanced illness receiving palliative care when response to laxative therapy has been insufficient. For patients weighing 38-61 kg, the dose should be reduced to 8 mg, while patients under 38 kg should receive 0.15 mg/kg 1, 2, 3, 4, 5. The medication should be administered as needed, but no more frequently than once every 24 hours. Most patients experience a bowel movement within 4 hours of the first dose. If no response occurs after 4 doses, the treatment should be reevaluated. Relestor works by blocking opioid binding to mu-receptors in the gastrointestinal tract without affecting pain relief, as it doesn't cross the blood-brain barrier. Common side effects include abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhea, and flatulence. The medication should be used with caution in patients with known or suspected gastrointestinal obstruction and should be discontinued if severe or persistent diarrhea occurs during treatment.
Key Considerations
- Relestor dosing is based on patient weight and response to treatment.
- The medication should be used with caution in patients with gastrointestinal obstruction.
- Common side effects include abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhea, and flatulence.
- Relestor works by blocking opioid binding to mu-receptors in the gastrointestinal tract without affecting pain relief.
Administration and Monitoring
- The medication should be administered as needed, but no more frequently than once every 24 hours.
- Most patients experience a bowel movement within 4 hours of the first dose.
- If no response occurs after 4 doses, the treatment should be reevaluated.
- Patients should be monitored for severe or persistent diarrhea, and the medication should be discontinued if this occurs.