What is Alvimopan?
Alvimopan can reduce certain adverse effects of opioids that are used to ease pain after the procedure. Certain side effects of opioid medication (stomach discomfort, bloating, and constipation) may delay the healing of the stomach or intestines after surgery.Alvimopan does not diminish the effects of pain relief from the opioid.Alvimopan can also aid in restoring normal digestion following the removal of part of your intestinal tract.Alvimopan is only available through a specific programme, and you'll receive just 15 doses. You have to be registered in the programme and be aware of the potential risks and advantages of alvimopan.Alvimopan could be used for other purposes not mentioned in this medication guide.
Side effects of Alvimopan
Contact a medical professional immediately. If you experience any of the following symptoms that indicate an allergic reaction, difficulty breathing or swelling of your lips, face, and tongue.A few people have suffered heart attacks after taking alvimopan over a long period of time. It's unclear if alvimopan is the real factor behind the heart attack.
Consult your physician immediately if you notice symptoms of a heart attack, such as:
- Chest pain, pressure, or achymus;
- The pain is spreading into your shoulder or jaw.
- Anxiety, nausea, and sweating.
Common side effects may include indigestion.It is possible to suffer unpleasant stomach reactions if you take any opioid medication prior to the procedure.This is not a comprehensive list of all side effects. Other side effects could occur. Contact your doctor to seek medical advice on the effects. If you have a concern, report it to the FDA by calling 1-800-FDA-1088.
Warnings
It is not recommended to use alvimopan in the case of severe kidney or liver disease or to have taken an opioid over seven consecutive days prior to your procedure.A few people experienced heart attacks when taking alvimopan over a long period of time in research studies. It's not known if alvimopan is the real reason behind the heart attack. Alvimopan shouldn't be used for more than 7 days following your operation.
Prior to use this drug
It is best not to take alvimopan in the case of serious kidney or liver disease.Do not consume alvimopan when you've taken opioids for more than seven days consecutively just prior to your surgery on your intestinal. Opioid medications include codeine, hydrocodone, fentanyl methadone, morphine, oxycodone, and many more.
Consult your doctor in the event that you've been afflicted by:
- Kidney or liver disease;
- Coronary heart disease or a prior heart attack
- Obstruction in the stomach (stomach or the intestines);
- A colostomy or ileostomy;
- A pancreas disorder;
- If you've recently taken any opioid medications,
It isn't known if this medication will affect a newborn baby. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to be pregnant.It is not recommended to breastfeed while taking this medication. Consult your physician about any potential risks.
How to take Alvimopan?
Alvimopan is only available in hospitals for a brief duration.You will be given your first dose of alvimopan prior to the procedure. After that, you will be given two doses of alvimopan every day for up to 7 days.Alvimopan shouldn't be used more than 7 days after the procedure.
Alvimopan dosing information
Usual Adult Dose for Gastrointestinal Surgery:
FOR HOSPITAL USE ONLY:
Initial dose: 12 mg orally, once given 30 minutes to 5 hours prior to surgery.
Maintenance dosage: 12 mg taken orally, twice daily, starting the day following surgery.
Maximum dose: Up to 15 doses
Time of treatment The treatment lasts seven days, or until the time of discharge.
Comment:
It is contraindicated for patients who have consumed medicinal doses of opioids for more than seven consecutive days prior to the start of treatment.
Use: To speed up the process of lower and upper gastrointestinal healing after surgeries that involve the partial resection of bowels with primary anastomosis.
What happens if I miss the dose?
You should take the medication as quickly as you are able, but do not take your missed dosage if it's nearing the time to take the next dose. Don't have two doses at one time.
What happens if I overdose?
Get medical attention in an emergency or contact the poison help line at 1-800-222-1222.
What should be avoided?
Follow the doctor's advice regarding any limitations on foods, drinks, or activities.
Interaction with other drugs
Other medications may interact with alvimopan, such as prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Inform your physician about the medicines you are currently taking as well as any medicines you are about to start or stop taking.It is particularly important to inform your physician if you've taken opioid medication in the past seven days. Opioid medicines are usually prescribed for moderate or severe pain. Certain prescription cough medicines also contain opioids.
