Methylnaltrexone is a medication used to treat narcotic drug-induced constipation. Narcotics are medications used to control pain, especially in people who suffer from cancer or any other terminal illnesses. According to MedlinePlus, methylnaltrexone is a peripheral acting mu-opioid receptor antagonist. It works to protect your intestines from the drug-induced effects of narcotics. Methylnaltrexone is available as an injection, and its dosage depends upon your body weight.
Common Side Effects
According to MedlinePlus, methylnaltrexone typically causes gas, stomach pain, vomiting and nausea. Vomiting can lead to fluid loss, and this can cause hypokalemia (low potassium levels) and dehydration. Physical symptoms of hypokalemia include muscle spasms or weakness and constipation. Eat plenty of potassium-rich fruits and vegetables such as spinach, bananas and raisins to increase the amount of potassium in your blood. Symptoms of dehydration include infrequent urination and dry mucus membranes such as the inner lining of your lips and mouth. Drink six to 10 glasses of water a day to promote hydration. Methylnaltrexone can also cause dizziness.
In a placebo-controlled study of 165 patients taking methylnaltrexone, the National Library of Medicine says that 28.5 percent developed stomach pain, 13.3 percent developed flatulence (gas), 11.5 percent developed nausea, 7.3 percent developed dizziness, 5.5 percent developed diarrhea and 6.7 percent developed excessive sweating.
Serious Side Effects
The National Library of Medicine warns that methylnaltrexone can cause severe and persistent diarrhea. Like vomiting, frequent bouts of diarrhea can also lead to severe hypokalemia and dehydration. Call your doctor immediately, as he will give you intravenous fluids and potassium to hydrate your body and restore your potassium levels, respectively. This can be a life-threatening condition if these symptoms persist for more than one week.
Additional Concerns
Avoid methylnaltrexone if you are allergic to it or have intestinal obstruction (blockage), says Drugs.com. Signs of a hypersensitivity reaction include hives, trouble breathing and swelling of your face, tongue or lips. Methylnaltrexone can exacerbate intestinal blockage.
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