WARNING

Taking Alvimopan can involve several risks, including:

• Kidney Issues: Potential for kidney-related side effects, especially in those with pre-existing kidney problems.
• Liver Problems: Risk of liver-related side effects, which might be more pronounced in individuals with liver conditions.
• Allergic Reactions: Possibility of severe allergic reactions, such as rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
• Gastrointestinal Issues: Common side effects include abdominal pain, nausea, and diarrhea.

It’s important to use Alvimopan under medical supervision and follow your healthcare provider’s instructions to minimize these risks.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Alvimopan is prescribed primarily to manage postoperative ileus, a condition where the intestines don’t start working normally after surgery. It’s often used in the context of abdominal surgery to help speed up the recovery of bowel function, which can be delayed due to the surgery or anesthesia. By accelerating bowel recovery, Alvimopan can help reduce the length of hospital stays and improve overall patient outcomes.

How should this medicine be used?

Here’s how it’s typically used:

• Administration: Alvimopan is usually given orally in the form of a capsule.
• Dosage: The usual dosage is one 12 mg capsule taken twice daily. The specific dosage and duration can vary based on individual patient needs and the surgical procedure.
• Timing: It’s generally started within a few hours to a few days after surgery and continued for a few days until bowel function normalizes.

It’s important to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions precisely when taking Alvimopan. Make sure to discuss any concerns or potential interactions with your doctor.

Other uses for this medicine

Alvimopan is primarily used for managing postoperative ileus, particularly after bowel surgery. Outside of this primary indication, its use is not very widespread. It is not typically used for other gastrointestinal conditions or disorders.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special Precautions:

• Renal Impairment: If you have kidney problems, your doctor will need to adjust the dosage or monitor you more closely, as Alvimopan is excreted through the kidneys.
• Hepatic Impairment: Use with caution in patients with liver issues, as liver function can affect the metabolism of the drug.
• Long-Term Use: Alvimopan is generally intended for short-term use. Prolonged use has not been well studied and may have unknown risks.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: The safety of Alvimopan during pregnancy or breastfeeding has not been established. Consult your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.
• Drug Interactions: Be sure to inform your doctor of all medications you are taking, as Alvimopan can interact with other drugs, including those that affect liver enzymes or kidney function.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and report any unusual symptoms or side effects.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary restrictions associated with Alvimopan. However, maintaining a balanced diet can support overall health and recovery, especially after surgery. It’s always a good idea to follow any additional dietary recommendations provided by your healthcare provider.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• Take It as Soon as Remembered: If you remember shortly after missing the dose, take it as soon as possible.
• Skip If Close to Next Dose: If it’s almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose. Do not double up to make up for a missed dose.
• Contact Your Healthcare Provider: If you’re unsure what to do, or if you miss multiple doses, consult your healthcare provider for guidance.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Alvimopan can cause side effects, though not everyone will experience them. Common and serious side effects include:

Common Side Effects:

• Abdominal Pain: Mild to moderate pain or discomfort in the abdomen.
• Nausea: Feeling queasy or experiencing an upset stomach.
• Diarrhea: Loose or watery stools.
• Headache: A general headache or migraine.

Serious Side Effects:

• Allergic Reactions: Rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.
• Kidney Issues: Symptoms like dark urine, swelling in the legs or feet, or persistent nausea.
• Liver Problems: Signs of liver issues include jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), dark urine, or unusual tiredness.

If you experience severe or persistent side effects, contact your healthcare provider immediately. They can provide guidance on how to manage these effects or determine if a different treatment is needed.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal of Alvimopan:

• Storage: Store Alvimopan at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep it in its original container with the lid tightly closed.
• Disposal: Dispose of unused or expired Alvimopan according to local regulations. Many areas have drug take-back programs or specific guidelines for safe disposal. Avoid flushing medications down the toilet or pouring them down the sink unless specifically instructed to do so.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Contact a Healthcare Provider: If you suspect an overdose, contact your healthcare provider or go to the nearest emergency room immediately.
• Symptoms of Overdose: While specific symptoms of Alvimopan overdose are not well-documented, signs of general overdose might include severe abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting.

What other information should I know?

• Compliance: Take Alvimopan exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Adhere to the prescribed dose and schedule.
• Interaction with Other Medications: Inform your healthcare provider of all other medications, including over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and supplements, to avoid potential interactions.
• Monitoring: Regular monitoring of kidney and liver function may be necessary while using Alvimopan.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: The safety of Alvimopan during pregnancy and breastfeeding is not well established. Discuss potential risks with your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and reach out to them if you have any concerns or questions about using Alvimopan.