Alvimopan

WHY is this medicine prescribed?

Alvimopan is used to help the bowel recover more quickly after bowel surgery, so that you can eat solid foods and have regular bowel movements. Alvimopan is in a class of medications called peripherally acting mu-opioid receptor antagonists. It works by protecting the bowel from the constipation effects of opioid (narcotic) medications that are used to treat pain after surgery.

HOW should this medicine be used?

Alvimopan comes as a capsule to take by mouth. It is usually taken once shortly before bowel surgery. After the surgery, it is usually taken twice a day for up to 7 days or until hospital discharge. Your nurse will bring your medication to you when it is time for you to receive each dose.

Are there OTHER USES for this medicine?

This medication should not be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

What SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS should I follow?

Before taking alvimopan,

• tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to alvimopan or any other medications.
• tell your doctor if you are taking or have recently taken any opioid (narcotic) medications for pain. Your doctor may tell you not to take alvimopan if you have taken any opioid medications during the 7 days before your surgery.
• Some medications should not be taken with alvimopan. Other medications may cause dosing changes or extra monitoring when taken with alvimopan. Make sure you have discussed any medications you are currently taking or plan to take before starting alvimopan with your doctor and pharmacist. Before starting, stopping, or changing any medications while taking alvimopan, please get the advice of your doctor or pharmacist.
• tell your doctor if you have or have ever had a complete bowel obstruction (blockage in your intestine); or kidney or liver disease.
• tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding.

What SPECIAL DIETARY instructions should I follow?

Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, continue your normal diet.

What SIDE EFFECTS can this medicine cause?

Alvimopan may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:

• constipation
• gas
• heartburn
• difficulty urinating
• back pain

Alvimopan may cause other side effects. Tell your doctor if you have any unusual problems while taking this medication.

In one study, people who took alvimopan for up to 12 months were more likely to experience heart attacks than people who did not take alvimopan. However, in another study, people who took alvimopan for up to 7 days following bowel surgery were no more likely to experience heart attacks than people who did not take alvimopan. Talk to your doctor about the risks of taking alvimopan.

If you experience a serious side effect, you or your doctor may send a report to the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program online (https://www.fda.gov/Safety/MedWatch) or by phone (1-800-332-1088).

What should I do in case of OVERDOSE?

In case of overdose, call the poison control helpline at 1-800-222-1222. Information is also available online at https://www.poisonhelp.org/help. If the victim has collapsed, had a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can't be awakened, immediately call emergency services at 911.

What OTHER INFORMATION should I know?

Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions about alvimopan.

It is important for you to keep a written list of all of the prescription and nonprescription (over-the-counter) medicines you are taking, as well as any products such as vitamins, minerals, or other dietary supplements. You should bring this list with you each time you visit a doctor or if you are admitted to a hospital. It is also important information to carry with you in case of emergencies.

This report on medications is for your information only, and is not considered individual patient advice. Because of the changing nature of drug information, please consult your physician or pharmacist about specific clinical use.

The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc. represents that the information provided hereunder was formulated with a reasonable standard of care, and in conformity with professional standards in the field. The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc. makes no representations or warranties, express or implied, including, but not limited to, any implied warranty of merchantability and/or fitness for a particular purpose, with respect to such information and specifically disclaims all such warranties. Users are advised that decisions regarding drug therapy are complex medical decisions requiring the independent, informed decision of an appropriate health care professional, and the information is provided for informational purposes only. The entire monograph for a drug should be reviewed for a thorough understanding of the drug's actions, uses and side effects. The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc. does not endorse or recommend the use of any drug. The information is not a substitute for medical care.

AHFS^® Patient Medication Information™. © Copyright, 2024. The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists^®, 4500 East-West Highway, Suite 900, Bethesda, Maryland. All Rights Reserved. Duplication for commercial use must be authorized by ASHP.

Selected Revisions: October 15, 2023.