Naloxegol oxalate

Naloxegol oxalate is a peripherally acting mu-opioid receptor antagonist (PAMORA) used for the treatment of opioid-induced constipation (OIC) in adult patients with chronic non-cancer pain. It is a derivative of naloxone and is marketed under the brand name Movantik by AstraZeneca.

Pharmacology

Naloxegol oxalate works by blocking the mu-opioid receptor in the gut, which is the primary receptor involved in opioid-induced constipation. This allows for normal bowel function to be restored. Unlike other opioid antagonists, naloxegol oxalate is a PEGylated compound, which increases its size and reduces its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier, thus limiting its effects to peripheral opioid receptors and avoiding the central nervous system side effects associated with non-selective opioid antagonists.

Clinical Use

Naloxegol oxalate is indicated for the treatment of opioid-induced constipation in adults with chronic non-cancer pain. It is typically used when response to laxative therapy has not been sufficient. The recommended dose is 25 mg once daily, taken on an empty stomach at least one hour prior to the first meal of the day or two hours after the meal.

Side Effects

Common side effects of naloxegol oxalate include abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. Less common but more serious side effects can include opioid withdrawal symptoms, severe abdominal pain and diarrhea, and perforation (tear) in your stomach or intestinal wall.

Contraindications

Naloxegol oxalate is contraindicated in patients with known or suspected gastrointestinal obstruction and in patients at increased risk of recurrent obstruction.

See Also

• Opioid-induced constipation
• Opioid antagonist
• AstraZeneca