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Updated: Jun 16, 2026
08:49
Murine Ileocolic Bowel Resection with Primary Anastomosis
Published on: October 29, 2014
Subcutaneous methylnaltrexone to restore postoperative bowel function in a long-term opiate user
Andras Ladanyi1, Sarah M Temkin, Jonathan Moss
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA.
Summary
Methylnaltrexone bromide (MNTX) may help accelerate gastrointestinal recovery in patients experiencing postoperative ileus. This study explored MNTX's use in a patient with opioid dependence, suggesting potential benefits for opioid-induced bowel dysfunction.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Pharmacology
- Oncology
Background:
- Opioid-induced constipation is a common side effect of analgesic use.
- Existing treatments for opioid-induced bowel hypomotility have shown limited success.
- Methylnaltrexone bromide (MNTX) is a peripherally acting opioid antagonist designed to mitigate opioid-induced side effects without affecting central analgesia.
Observation:
- The study reports the use of MNTX in a patient with a history of heroin use and recurrent cervical cancer.
- The patient underwent surgery for a diverting colostomy and urinary conduit placement, developing postoperative ileus.
- MNTX was administered to alleviate the symptoms of postoperative ileus in this complex patient.
Findings:
- The administration of MNTX was associated with the alleviation of postoperative ileus.
- Results suggest that MNTX may contribute to accelerated gastrointestinal recovery in opioid-dependent patients.
- This case highlights a potential application of MNTX beyond its current indication in palliative care.
Implications:
- Methylnaltrexone bromide shows promise in managing postoperative ileus in opioid-dependent individuals.
- Further research is needed to confirm the efficacy and safety of MNTX for postoperative ileus.
- This finding could expand the therapeutic role of MNTX in surgical and oncology patient populations.
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