How should I use methylnaltrexone?
Stop using laxatives before you start using methylnaltrexone.
Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.
Methylnaltrexone can produce a bowel movement within 30 minutes. Be sure you are near a restroom when you use this medicine.
Methylnaltrexone oral is taken by mouth.
Take methylnaltrexone tablets on an empty stomach, at least 30 minutes before your first meal of the day.
Take the tablets with a full glass of water.
Methylnaltrexone injection is injected under the skin. A healthcare provider will give your first dose and may teach you how to properly use the medication by yourself.
Read and carefully follow any Instructions for Use provided with your medicine. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you don't understand all instructions.
Your healthcare provider will show you where on your body to inject methylnaltrexone. Use a different place each time you give an injection. Do not inject into the same place two times in a row.
Prepare an injection only when you are ready to give it. Do not use if the medicine looks cloudy, has changed colors, or has particles in it. Call your pharmacist for new medicine.
Each methylnaltrexone injection vial (bottle) or prefilled syringe is for one use only. Throw it away after one use, even if there is still medicine left inside.
Do not use methylnaltrexone more often than once every 24 hours.
Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 3 days. You may use other laxatives after 3 days of treatment with methylnaltrexone.
Store this medicine at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light. Do not freeze. Keep the tablets in their original container, along with the 2 canisters of moisture-absorbing preservative.
Use a needle and syringe only once and then place them in a puncture-proof "sharps" container. Follow state or local laws about how to dispose of this container. Keep it out of the reach of children and pets.
After you stop using your opioid pain medication, you should also stop using methylnaltrexone.