Medicines
Discover all available medicines and treatments
Discover all available medicines and treatments
Brand: Relistor
Methylnaltrexone is a peripherally acting mu-opioid receptor antagonist used to treat opioid-induced constipation (OIC) in patients with advanced illness who are receiving palliative care. It does not cross the blood-brain barrier, which means it does not interfere with the central analgesic effects of opioids. It works by blocking the binding of opioids to mu-opioid receptors in the gut, thereby reducing constipation.
For the treatment of opioid-induced constipation in patients with advanced illness receiving palliative care.
Outcome:
Increased methylnaltrexone levels
Mechanism:
Inhibition of methylnaltrexone metabolism
Outcome:
Potential increase in methylnaltrexone levels
Mechanism:
Partial inhibition of metabolism
Outcome:
Slight increase in methylnaltrexone absorption
Mechanism:
Enhanced solubility
Most likely new formulation: subcutaneous injection for improved patient convenience (Year: 2026, 70% confidence)
Based on current usage trends and safety profile, there is a low probability ( <5%) of regulatory changes impacting methylnaltrexone's availability in the next 5 years.
Peripherally Acting Mu-Opioid Receptor Antagonist
Quaternary Ammonium Compound