Naloxegol for managing opioid-induced constipation.

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology
• Gastroenterology

Background:

• Opioid-induced constipation (OIC) is a common side effect of opioid therapy for chronic noncancer pain.
• Peripherally acting mu-opioid receptor antagonists (PAMORAs) offer a targeted approach to managing OIC.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy and safety of naloxegol for treating OIC in adults with chronic noncancer pain.
• To assess naloxegol's role as a monotherapy option.

Main Methods:

• Naloxegol, a once-daily oral PAMORA, was administered to adult patients experiencing OIC.
• The study assessed the drug's ability to decrease opioid-related constipation.

Main Results:

• Naloxegol demonstrated effectiveness in reducing the constipating effects of opioid therapy.
• Abdominal pain was identified as a notable adverse event associated with naloxegol use.

Conclusions:

• Naloxegol is a viable oral monotherapy for OIC in adults with chronic noncancer pain.
• Clinicians should monitor for and manage potential abdominal pain side effects.