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RELISTOR®
(methylnaltrexone bromide) Tablets
RELISTOR®
(methylnaltrexone bromide) injection, for subcutaneous use
RELISTOR® (methylnaltrexone bromide) is a mu-opioid receptor antagonist. The chemical name for methylnaltrexone bromide is (R)-N-(cyclopropylmethyl) noroxymorphone methobromide. The molecular formula is C21H26NO4Br, and the molecular weight is 436.36.
The structural formula is:
 |
RELISTOR tablets for oral administration are film-coated and contain 150 mg of methylnaltrexone bromide (equivalent to 122.5 mg methylnaltrexone). Inactive ingredients are silicified microcrystalline cellulose, microcrystalline cellulose, sodium lauryl sulfate, croscarmellose sodium, crospovidone, poloxamer 407, stearic acid (vegetable source), colloidal silicon dioxide, edetate calcium disodium, polyvinyl alcohol, titanium dioxide, polyethylene glycol and talc.
RELISTOR for subcutaneous administration is a sterile, clear and colorless to pale yellow aqueous solution. Each 3 mL vial contains 12 mg of methylnaltrexone bromide (equivalent to 9.8 mg of methylnaltrexone) in 0.6 mL of water. The excipients are 3.9 mg sodium chloride USP, 0.24 mg edetate calcium disodium USP, and 0.18 mg glycine hydrochloride. During manufacture, the pH may have been adjusted with hydrochloric acid and/or sodium hydroxide.
Each 8 mg/0.4 mL pre-filled syringe (1 mL syringe) contains 8 mg of methylnaltrexone bromide (equivalent to 6.5 mg of methylnaltrexone) in 0.4 mL of water. The excipients are 2.6 mg sodium chloride USP, 0.16 mg edetate calcium disodium USP, and 0.12 mg glycine hydrochloride.
Each 12 mg/0.6 mL pre-filled syringe (1 mL syringe) contains 12 mg of methylnaltrexone bromide (equivalent to 9.8 mg of methylnaltrexone) in 0.6 mL of water. The excipients are 3.9 mg sodium chloride USP, 0.24 mg edetate calcium disodium USP, and 0.18 mg glycine hydrochloride.
RELISTOR tablets and RELISTOR injection are indicated for the treatment of opioid-induced constipation (OIC) in adult patients with chronic non-cancer pain, including patients with chronic pain related to prior cancer or its treatment who do not require frequent (e.g., weekly) opioid dosage escalation.
RELISTOR injection is indicated for the treatment of OIC in adult patients with advanced illness or pain caused by active cancer who require opioid dosage escalation for palliative care.
The pre-filled syringe is only for patients who require a RELISTOR injection dose of 8 mg or 12 mg. Use the vial for patients who require other doses of RELISTOR injection.
Table 1 below shows the recommended weight-based dose of RELISTOR injection and the corresponding injection volume. The recommended dosage regimen is one dose administered subcutaneously every other day, as needed. Do not administer more frequently than one dose per 24-hour period.
Table 1: Weight-Based Dosing of RELISTOR Injection and
Corresponding Injection Volume for Adult Patients with OIC and Advanced Illness
| Weight of Adult Patient | Subcutaneous Dose | Injection Volume |
| Less than 38 kg | 0.15 mg/kg | See below* |
| 38 kg to less than 62 kg | 8 mg | 0.4 mL |
| 62 kg to 114 kg | 12 mg | 0.6 mL |
| More than 114 kg | 0.15 mg/kg | See below* |
| * Calculate the injection volume for these patients by multiplying the patient weight in kilograms by 0.0075 and then rounding up the volume to the nearest 0.1 mL. | ||
The recommended dosage of RELISTOR in patients with moderate and severe renal impairment (i.e., creatinine clearance less than 60 mL/minute as estimated by Cockcroft-Gault) [see Use In Specific Populations], is shown below by indication:
RELISTOR injection: The recommended dosage regimen is one dose every other day, as needed is shown in Table 2.
Table 2: Weight-Based Dosing in Moderate and Severe
Renal Impairment of RELISTOR Injection and Corresponding Injection Volume for
Adult Patients with OIC and Advanced Illness
| Weight of Adult Patient | Subcutaneous Dose | Injection Volume |
| Less than 38 kg | 0.075 mg/kg | See below* |
| 38 kg to less than 62 kg | 4 mg | 0.2 mL |
| 62 kg to 114 kg | 6 mg | 0.3 mL |
| More than 114 kg | 0.075 mg/kg | See below* |
| * Calculate the injection volume for these patients by multiplying the patient weight in kilograms by 0.00375 and then rounding up the volume to the nearest 0.1 mL. | ||
Table 3: Weight-Based Dosing in Severe Hepatic
Impairment of RELISTOR Injection and Corresponding Injection Volume for Adult
Patients with OIC and Chronic Non-Cancer Pain
| Weight of Adult Patient | Subcutaneous Dose | Injection Volume |
| Less than 38 kg | 0.075 mg/kg | See below* |
| 38 kg to less than 62 kg | 4 mg | 0.2 mL |
| 62 kg to 114 kg | 6 mg | 0.3 mL |
| More than 114 kg | 0.075 mg/kg | See below* |
| * Calculate the injection volume for these patients by multiplying the patient weight in kilograms by 0.00375 and then rounding up the volume to the nearest 0.1 mL. | ||
150 mg methylnaltrexone bromide supplied as film-coated, white, round, biconvex, debossed with “REL” on one side and plain on the other side.
Single-Dose Vial
Single-dose Pre-filled Syringe
| NDC Number | Pack Size | Contents |
| 65649-150-60 | 60-count bottle | 85-mL bottle containing 60 tablets and 2 silica gel desiccant canisters. Each 150 mg film-coated tablet is white, round, biconvex, and debossed with “REL” on one side and plain on the other side. |
| 65649-150-90 | 90-count bottle | 100-mL bottle containing 90 tablets and 2 silica gel desiccant canisters. Each 150 mg film-coated tablet is white, round, biconvex, and debossed with “REL” on one side and plain on the other side. |
| 65649-551-02 | 1 vial per carton | One 12 mg/0.6 mL single-dose vial containing a colorless to pale yellow solution. |
| 65649-552-04 | 7 pre-filled syringes per carton | Seven 8 mg/0.4 mL single-dose pre-filled syringes with needle guard system containing a colorless to pale yellow solution. |
| 65649-551-03 | 7 pre-filled syringes per carton | Seven 12 mg/0.6 mL single-dose pre-filled syringes with needle guard system containing a colorless to pale yellow solution. |
| 65649-551-07 | 1 pre-filled syringe per carton | One 12 mg/0.6 mL single-dose pre-filled syringe with needle guard system containing a colorless to pale yellow solution. |
Store at up to 25°C (77°F); excursions permitted to 15° to 30°C (59° to 86°F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature].
Store at 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F); excursions permitted to 15° to 30°C (59° to 86°F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature].
Do not freeze. Protect from light.
Manufactured for: Salix Pharmaceuticals, a division of Valeant Pharmaceuticals North America LLC Bridgewater, NJ 08807 USA. Under license from: Progenics Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Tarrytown, NY 10591. Revised: Mar 2018
Serious and important adverse reactions described elsewhere in the labeling include:
Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in clinical practice.
The safety of RELISTOR tablets was evaluated in a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in adult patients with OIC and chronic non-cancer pain receiving opioid analgesia. This study (Study 1) included a 12-week, double-blind, placebo-controlled period in which adult patients were randomized to receive RELISTOR tablets 450 mg orally (200 patients) or placebo (201 patients) [see Clinical Studies]. After 4 weeks of double-blind treatment administered once daily, patients continued 8 weeks of double-blind treatment on an as needed basis (but not more than once daily).
The most common adverse reactions in adult patients with OIC and chronic non-cancer pain receiving RELISTOR tablets are shown in Table 4. Adverse reactions of abdominal pain, diarrhea, hyperhidrosis, anxiety, rhinorrhea, and chills may reflect symptoms of opioid withdrawal.
Table 4: Adverse Reactions* in 4,-Week Double-Blind,
Placebo-Controlled Period of Clinical Study of RELISTOR Tablets in Adult
Patients with OIC and Chronic Non-Cancer Pain (Study 1)
| Adverse Reaction | RELISTOR Tablets n = 200 |
Placebo n = 201 |
| Abdominal Pain ** | 14% | 10% |
| Diarrhea | 5% | 2% |
| Headache | 4% | 3% |
| Abdominal Distention | 4% | 2% |
| Vomiting | 3% | 2% |
| Hyperhidrosis | 3% | 1% |
| Anxiety | 2% | 1% |
| Muscle Spasms | 2% | 1% |
| Rhinorrhea | 2% | 1% |
| Chills | 2% | 0% |
| * Adverse reactions occurring in at least 2% of patients
receiving RELISTOR tablets 450 mg once daily and at an incidence greater than
placebo. ** Includes: abdominal pain, upper abdominal pain, lower abdominal pain, abdominal discomfort and abdominal tenderness |
||
The safety of RELISTOR injection was evaluated in a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in adult patients with OIC and chronic non-cancer pain receiving opioid analgesia. This study (Study 2) included a 4-week, double-blind, placebo-controlled period in which adult patients were randomized to receive RELISTOR injection 12 mg subcutaneously once daily (150 patients) or placebo (162 patients) [see Clinical Studies]. After 4 weeks of double-blind treatment, patients began an 8-week open-label treatment period during which RELISTOR injection 12 mg subcutaneously was administered less frequently than the recommended dosage regimen of 12 mg once daily.
The most common adverse reactions in adult patients with OIC and chronic non-cancer pain receiving RELISTOR injection are shown in Table 5. The adverse reactions in the table below may reflect symptoms of opioid withdrawal.
Table 5: Adverse Reactions* in 4-Week Double-Blind,
Placebo-Controlled Period of Clinical Study of RELISTOR Injection in Adult
Patients with OIC and Chronic Non-Cancer Pain (Study 2)
| Adverse Reaction | RELISTOR Injection n = 150 |
Placebo n = 162 |
| Abdominal Pain** | 21% | 7% |
| Nausea | 9% | 6% |
| Diarrhea | 6% | 4% |
| Hyperhidrosis | 6% | 1% |
| Hot Flush | 3% | 2% |
| Tremor | 1% | <1% |
| Chills | 1% | 0% |
| * Adverse reactions occurring in at least 1% of patients
receiving RELISTOR injection 12 mg subcutaneously once daily and at an
incidence greater than placebo. ** Includes: abdominal pain, upper abdominal pain, lower abdominal pain, abdominal discomfort and abdominal tenderness |
||
During the 4-week double-blind period, in patients with OIC and chronic non-cancer pain that received RELISTOR every other day, there was a higher incidence of adverse reactions, including nausea (12%), diarrhea (12%), vomiting (7%), tremor (3%), feeling of body temperature change (3%), piloerection (3%), and chills (2%) as compared to daily RELISTOR dosing. Use of RELISTOR injection 12 mg subcutaneously every other day is not recommended in patients with OIC and chronic non-cancer pain [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION]. The rates of discontinuation due to adverse reactions during the double-blind period (Study 2) were higher in the RELISTOR once daily (7%) than the placebo group (3%). Abdominal pain was the most common adverse reaction resulting in discontinuation from the double-blind period in the RELISTOR once daily group (2%).
The safety of RELISTOR injection was also evaluated in a 48-week, open-label, uncontrolled trial in 1034 adult patients with OIC and chronic non-cancer pain (Study 3). Patients were allowed to administer RELISTOR injection 12 mg subcutaneously less frequently than the recommended dosage regimen of 12 mg once daily, and took a median of 6 doses per week. A total of 624 patients (60%) completed at least 24 weeks of treatment and 477 (46%) completed the 48-week study. The adverse reactions seen in this study were similar to those observed during the 4-week double-blind period of Study 2. Additionally, in Study 3, investigators reported 4 myocardial infarctions (1 fatal), 1 stroke (fatal), 1 fatal cardiac arrest and 1 sudden death. It is not possible to establish a relationship between these events and RELISTOR.
The safety of RELISTOR injection was evaluated in two, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials in adult patients with OIC and advanced illness receiving palliative care: Study 4 included a single-dose, double-blind, placebo-controlled period, whereas Study 5 included a 14-day multiple dose, double-blind, placebo-controlled period [see Clinical Studies].
The most common adverse reactions in adult patients with OIC and advanced illness receiving RELISTOR injection are shown in Table 6 below.
Table 6: Adverse Reactions from All Doses in
Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Studies of RELISTOR Injection in
Adult Patients with OIC and Advanced Illness* (Studies 4 and 5)
| Adverse Reaction | RELISTOR Injection n = 165 |
Placebo n = 123 |
| Abdominal Pain ** | 29% | 10% |
| Flatulence | 13% | 6% |
| Nausea | 12% | 5% |
| Dizziness | 7% | 2% |
| Diarrhea | 6% | 2% |
| * Adverse reactions occurring in at least 5% of patients
receiving all doses of RELISTOR injection (0.075, 0.15, and 0.3 mg/kg) and at
an incidence greater than placebo ** Includes: abdominal pain, upper abdominal pain, lower abdominal pain, abdominal discomfort and abdominal tenderness |
||
The rates of discontinuation due to adverse reactions during the double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trials (Study 4 and Study 5) were comparable between RELISTOR (1%) and placebo (2%).
The following adverse reactions have been identified during post-approval use of RELISTOR injection. Because reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate the frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure.
Perforation, cramping, vomiting
Diaphoresis, flushing, malaise, pain. Cases of opioid withdrawal have been reported [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Avoid concomitant use of RELISTOR with other opioid antagonists because of the potential for additive effects of opioid receptor antagonism and increased risk of opioid withdrawal.
In healthy subjects, a subcutaneous dose of 0.3 mg/kg of RELISTOR did not significantly affect the metabolism of dextromethorphan, a CYP2D6 substrate.
Included as part of the PRECAUTIONS section.
Cases of gastrointestinal perforation have been reported in adult patients with OIC and advanced illness with conditions that may be associated with localized or diffuse reduction of structural integrity in the wall of the gastrointestinal tract (e.g., peptic ulcer disease, Ogilvie's syndrome, diverticular disease, infiltrative gastrointestinal tract malignancies or peritoneal metastases). Take into account the overall risk-benefit profile when using RELISTOR in patients with these conditions or other conditions which might result in impaired integrity of the gastrointestinal tract wall (e.g., Crohn's disease). Monitor for the development of severe, persistent, or worsening abdominal pain; discontinue RELISTOR in patients who develop this symptom [see CONTRAINDICATIONS].
If severe or persistent diarrhea occurs during treatment, advise patients to discontinue therapy with RELISTOR and consult their healthcare provider.
Symptoms consistent with opioid withdrawal, including hyperhidrosis, chills, diarrhea, abdominal pain, anxiety, and yawning have occurred in patients treated with RELISTOR [see ADVERSE REACTIONS]. Patients having disruptions to the blood-brain barrier may be at increased risk for opioid withdrawal and/or reduced analgesia. Take into account the overall risk-benefit profile when using RELISTOR in such patients. Monitor for adequacy of analgesia and symptoms of opioid withdrawal in such patients.
Advise the patient to read the FDA-approved patient labeling (Medication Guide and Instructions for Use).
Advise patients with chronic non-cancer pain receiving RELISTOR tablets for OIC to take RELISTOR tablets once daily with water on an empty stomach at least 30 minutes before the first meal of the day.
Advise patients to discontinue RELISTOR and to promptly seek medical attention if they develop unusually severe, persistent, or worsening abdominal pain [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Advise patients to discontinue RELISTOR if they experience severe or persistent diarrhea.
Advise patients that symptoms consistent with opioid withdrawal may occur while taking RELISTOR, including sweating, chills, diarrhea, abdominal pain, anxiety, and yawning [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS, ADVERSE REACTIONS].
Fetal Opioid Withdrawal
Advise females of reproductive potential, who become pregnant or are planning to become pregnant, that the use of RELISTOR during pregnancy may precipitate opioid withdrawal in a fetus due to the undeveloped blood-brain barrier [see Use In Specific Populations].
Advise patients that breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment with RELISTOR [see Use In Specific Populations].
Two-year oral carcinogenicity studies have been conducted with methylnaltrexone bromide in CD-1 mice at doses up to 200 mg/kg/day (about 81 times the subcutaneous maximum recommended human dose (MRHD) of 12 mg/day based on body surface area) in males and 400 mg/kg/day (about 162 times the subcutaneous MRHD of 12 mg/day) in females and in Sprague Dawley rats at oral doses up to 300 mg/kg/day (about 243 times the subcutaneous MRHD of 12 mg/day). The 200 mg/kg/day and 400 mg/kg/day doses in male and female mice are about 2.2 and 4.4 times, respectively, the oral MRHD of 450 mg/day, and the 300 mg/kg/day dose in rats is about 6.5 times the oral MRHD of 450 mg/day, based on body surface area. Oral administration of methylnaltrexone bromide for 104 weeks did not produce tumors in mice and rats.
Methylnaltrexone bromide was negative in the Ames test, chromosome aberration tests in Chinese hamster ovary cells and human lymphocytes, in the mouse lymphoma cell forward mutation tests and in the in vivo mouse micronucleus test.
Methylnaltrexone bromide at subcutaneous doses up to 150 mg/kg/day (about 122 times the subcutaneous MRHD of 12 mg/day; about 3.3 times the oral MRHD of 450 mg/day) was found to have no adverse effect on fertility and reproductive performance of male and female rats.
The limited available data with RELISTOR in pregnant women are not sufficient to inform a drug-associated risk for major birth defects and miscarriages. There are clinical considerations when RELISTOR is used by pregnant women [see Clinical Considerations]. In animal reproduction studies, no effects on embryofetal development were observed with the administration of intravenous methylnaltrexone bromide during organogenesis in rats and rabbits at doses up to 20 times and 26 times, respectively, the subcutaneous maximum recommended human dose (MRHD) of 12 mg RELISTOR injection per day. The intravenous doses in rats and rabbits are about 0.5 times and 0.7 times, respectively, the oral MRHD of 450 mg/day [see Data]. Advise pregnant women of the potential risk to a fetus.
The estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2 to 4% and 15 to 20%, respectively.
Fetal/Neonatal Adverse Reactions
The use of RELISTOR during pregnancy may precipitate opioid withdrawal in a fetus due to the immature fetal blood-brain barrier.
Animal Data
Reproduction studies have been performed with methylnaltrexone bromide administered during the period of organogenesis to rats at intravenous doses up to 25 mg/kg/day (about 20 times the subcutaneous MRHD of 12 mg/day based on body surface area), and did not cause any adverse effects on embryofetal development. In rabbits, intravenous doses of methylnaltrexone bromide up to 16 mg/kg/day (about 26 times the subcutaneous MRHD of 12 mg/day) did not show any embryofetal toxicity. The intravenous doses in rats (25 mg/kg/day) and rabbits (16 mg/kg/day) are about 0.5 and 0.7 times, respectively, the oral MRHD of 450 mg/day based on body surface area. A pre-and postnatal development study in rats showed no evidence of any adverse effect on preand postnatal development at subcutaneous doses of methylnaltrexone bromide up to 100 mg/kg/day (about 81 times the subcutaneous MRHD of 12 mg/day; about 2.2 times the oral MRHD of 450 mg/day).
There is no information regarding the presence of methylnaltrexone in human milk, the effects on the breastfed infant, or the effects on milk production. Methylnaltrexone is present in rat milk [see Data]. Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions, including opioid withdrawal, in breastfed infants, advise women that breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment with RELISTOR.
Radioactivity appeared in rat milk within 30 minutes of a single subcutaneous administration of radiolabeled methylnaltrexone bromide and was concentrated up to 24-fold at 8 hours after administration relative to plasma concentrations.
Safety and effectiveness of RELISTOR tablets and injection have not been established in pediatric patients.
In juvenile rats administered intravenous methylnaltrexone bromide for 13 weeks, adverse clinical signs such as convulsions, tremors and labored breathing were observed, and the juvenile rats were found to be more sensitive to the adverse effects of methylnaltrexone when compared to adult animals. Juvenile dogs administered intravenous methylnaltrexone bromide for 13 weeks had a toxicity profile similar to adult dogs [see Nonclinical Toxicology].
Of the total number of patients in clinical studies of RELISTOR tablets, a total of 136 patients (10%) were aged 65 years and older, while 23 (2%) were aged 75 and older. In clinical studies of RELISTOR tablets, no overall differences in effectiveness were observed. Adverse reactions were similar; however, there was a higher incidence of diarrhea in elderly patients.
Of the total number of patients in clinical studies of RELISTOR injection, a total of 226 (28%) were aged 65 years and older, while 108 (13%) were aged 75 years and older. In clinical studies of RELISTOR injection, no overall differences in safety or effectiveness were observed between elderly patients and younger patients.
Based on pharmacokinetic data, and safety and efficacy data from controlled clinical trials, no dosage adjustment based on age is recommended. Monitor elderly patients for adverse reactions.
In a study of subjects with varying degrees of renal impairment receiving RELISTOR injection subcutaneously, there was a significant increase in the exposure to methylnaltrexone in subjects with moderate and severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance less than 60 mL/minute as estimated by Cockcroft-Gault) compared to healthy subjects [see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY].
Therefore, a dosage reduction of RELISTOR tablets and RELISTOR injection is recommended in patients with moderate and severe renal impairment [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION]. No dosage adjustment of RELISTOR tablets or RELISTOR injection is needed in patients with mild renal impairment (creatinine clearance greater than 60 mL/minute as estimated by Cockcroft-Gault).
In a study of subjects with varying degrees of hepatic impairment receiving a 450 mg dose of RELISTOR tablets, there was a significant increase in systemic exposure of methylnaltrexone for subjects with moderate (Child-Pugh Class B) and severe (Child-Pugh Class C) hepatic impairment compared to healthy subjects with normal hepatic function [see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY]. Therefore, a dosage reduction of RELISTOR tablets is recommended in patients with moderate or severe hepatic impairment [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION]. No dosage adjustment of RELISTOR tablets is needed in patients with mild hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Class A).
In a study of subjects with mild or moderate hepatic impairment, there was no clinically meaningful change in systemic exposure of methylnaltrexone compared to healthy subjects with normal hepatic function [see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY]. Therefore, no dosage adjustment of RELISTOR injection is needed for patients with mild or moderate hepatic impairment [see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY].
Patients with severe hepatic impairment were not studied. In patients with severe hepatic impairment, monitor for methylnaltrexone-related adverse reactions. If considering dosage adjustment, follow the recommendations in Table 3 [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION].
During clinical trials of RELISTOR administered orally and subcutaneously, one accidental case of methylnaltrexone bromide overdose was reported and no adverse events were reported as a result of the overdosage.
A study of healthy subjects noted orthostatic hypotension associated with a dose of 0.64 mg/kg administered as an intravenous bolus. Monitor for signs or symptoms of orthostatic hypotension and initiate treatment as appropriate.
If a patient on opioid therapy receives an overdose of RELISTOR, the patient should be monitored closely for potential evidence of opioid withdrawal symptoms such as chills, rhinorrhea, diaphoresis or reversal of central analgesic effect. Base treatment on the degree of opioid withdrawal symptoms, including changes in blood pressure and heart rate, and on the need for analgesia.
RELISTOR is contraindicated in patients with known or suspected gastrointestinal obstruction and patients at increased risk of recurrent obstruction, due to the potential for gastrointestinal perforation [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Methylnaltrexone is a selective antagonist of opioid binding at the mu-opioid receptor. As a quaternary amine, the ability of methylnaltrexone to cross the blood-brain barrier is restricted. This allows methylnaltrexone to function as a peripherally-acting mu-opioid receptor antagonist in tissues such as the gastrointestinal tract, thereby decreasing the constipating effects of opioids without impacting opioid-mediated analgesic effects on the central nervous system.
In a randomized, double-blind placebo-and (open-label) moxifloxacin-controlled 4-period crossover study, 56 healthy subjects were administered methylnaltrexone bromide 0.3 mg/kg and methylnaltrexone bromide 0.64 mg/kg by intravenous infusion over 20 minutes (RELISTOR is not approved for intravenous use), placebo, and a single oral dose of moxifloxacin. At a dose approximately 4.3 times the maximum recommended dose (7.5 times the mean peak plasma concentration for RELISTOR injection and 22 times the peak plasma concentration for RELISTOR tablets), methylnaltrexone does not prolong the QTc interval to any clinically relevant extent.
Between the oral dosage range of 150 mg to 450 mg for RELISTOR tablets and the subcutaneous dosage range of 0.15 mg/kg to 0.50 mg/kg for RELISTOR injection, the mean Cmax and area under the plasma concentration-time curve (AUC) of methylnaltrexone increased in a dose-proportional manner. There was no significant accumulation of methylnaltrexone following once-daily oral dosing of 450 mg RELISTOR tablets or subcutaneous dosing of 12 mg RELISTOR injection for seven consecutive days in healthy subjects.
Tablets
Following administration of a single 450 mg dose of RELISTOR tablets in OIC patients or healthy subjects, peak concentrations (Cmax) of methylnaltrexone were observed at approximately 1.5 hours. The absolute bioavailability of oral methylnaltrexone bromide has not been determined. The Cmax and AUC in healthy subjects were 48.1 ng/mL and 382 ng·hr/mL, respectively, following a single 450 mg dose of RELISTOR tablets. Exposure in the OIC patient population was approximately 27% lower than in healthy subjects.
Food Effect
Administration of a single 450 mg dose of RELISTOR tablets to healthy subjects with a high-fat breakfast (containing approximately 800 to 1000 total calories, with 60%, 25% and 15% of calories derived from fat, carbohydrate and protein, respectively) resulted in a decrease in the Cmax of methylnaltrexone by 60%, the AUC by 43% and delayed the Tmax by 2 hours [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION].
Injection
Following administration of RELISTOR injection subcutaneously, methylnaltrexone achieved peak concentrations (Cmax) at approximately 0.5 hours (see Table 7).
Table 7: Pharmacokinetic Parameters of
Methylnaltrexone Following Subcutaneous Doses
| Parameter | 0.15 mg/kg Single Dose | 12 mg Single Dose | 12 mg at Steady-State |
| Cmax (ng/mL)i | 117 (32.7) | 140 (35.6) | 119 (27.2) |
| Tmax (hr)ii | 0.5 (0.25 to 0.75) | 0.25 (0.25 to 0.5) | 0.25 (0.25 to 0.5) |
| AUC24 (nghr/mL) | 175 (36.6) | 218 (28.3) | 223 (28.2) |
| i Expressed as mean (SD). ii Expressed as median (range). |
|||
The steady-state volume of distribution (Vss) of methylnaltrexone is approximately 1.1 L/kg. The fraction of methylnaltrexone bound to human plasma proteins is 11% to 15%, as determined by equilibrium dialysis.
Following oral administration of a single 450 mg dose of RELISTOR tablets, concentrations of methylnaltrexone declined in multiphasic manner with a terminal half-life (t½) of approximately 15 hours.
In an intravenous mass balance study, approximately 44% of the administered radioactivity was recovered in the urine over 24 hours with 5 distinct metabolites. None of the detected metabolites was in amounts over 6% of administered radioactivity. Conversion to methyl-6-naltrexol isomers (5% of total) and methylnaltrexone sulfate (1% of total) appear to be the primary pathways of metabolism. N-demethylation of methylnaltrexone to produce naltrexone is not significant.
Systemic exposure of methylnaltrexone metabolites after oral administration of a single 450 mg dose of RELISTOR tablets are greater than the systemic exposure of methylnaltrexone metabolites after subcutaneous administration of a single 12 mg dose of RELISTOR injection. Subcutaneous administration is not subject to first-pass hepatic metabolism prior to appearance in the systemic circulation. After 12 mg subcutaneous once daily dosing the mean AUC0-24 ratio of metabolites to methylnaltrexone at steady-state was 30%, 19%, and 9% for methylnaltrexone sulfate, methyl-6α-naltrexol, and methyl-6ß-naltrexol, respectively. After 450 mg oral once daily dosing, the ratio of the mean AUC0-24 of metabolites to methylnaltrexone at steady-state was 79%, 38%, and 21% for methylnaltrexone sulfate, methyl-6α-naltrexol, and methyl-6ß-naltrexol, respectively. Methylnaltrexone sulfate is a weak mu-opioid receptor antagonist; methyl-6α-naltrexol, and methyl-6ßnaltrexol are active mu-opioid receptor antagonists.
Methylnaltrexone is conjugated by sulfotransferase SULT1E1 and SULT2A1 isoforms to methylnaltrexone sulfate. Conversion to methyl-6-naltrexol isomers is mediated by aldo-keto reductase 1C enzymes.
In an intravenous mass balance study, approximately half of the dose was excreted in the urine (54%), and 17% of administered dose was excreted in the feces up to 168 hours postdose; however, radiolabeled recovery in this study was only 71% after 7 days. Methylnaltrexone is excreted primarily as the unchanged drug in the urine and feces. Active renal secretion of methylnaltrexone is suggested by renal clearance of methylnaltrexone that is approximately 4-to 5-fold higher than creatinine clearance.
No mass balance clinical studies were conducted with oral administration of methylnaltrexone bromide. However, following once daily dosing of 450 mg RELISTOR tablets for 1 week, the percentage of dose recovered in the urine as the parent methylnaltrexone was low (approximately 1% on both Day 1 and Day 7).
A study was conducted to characterize the pharmacokinetics of methylnaltrexone after a single dose of 24 mg methylnaltrexone bromide via intravenous infusion over 20 min in healthy adults between 18 and 45 years of age and in healthy adults aged 65 years and older. In elderly subjects (mean age 72 years old), mean clearance was about 20% lower (56 L/h versus 70 L/h) and AUC∞ was 26% higher than in subjects between 18 and 45 years of age (mean age 30 years old) [see Use In Specific Populations].
Administration of a single subcutaneous dose of 0.3 mg/kg of RELISTOR injection in subjects with varying degrees of renal impairment (8 subjects each cohort) resulted in a 1.3-, 1.7-and 1.9-fold higher AUC0-∞ of methylnaltrexone, respectively, compared to 8 subjects with normal renal function [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION]. The mean Cmax did not change significantly with renal impairment. No studies were performed in patients with end-stage renal impairment requiring dialysis.
Administration of a single 450 mg dose of RELISTOR tablets in subjects with mild, moderate, and severe hepatic impairment (6 subjects each of Child-Pugh Class A, B, and C) resulted in a 1.7-, 4.8-and 3.8-fold higher Cmax of methylnaltrexone, respectively, compared to 6 subjects with normal liver function. The AUC0-∞, was comparable between healthy subjects and subjects with mild hepatic impairment, but increased approximately 2.1-fold in subjects with moderate and severe hepatic impairment [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION].
Administration of a single dose of 0.3 mg/kg of RELISTOR injection subcutaneously in 8 subjects with mild hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Class A) and 8 subjects with moderate hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Class B) did not result in any meaningful change in the AUC or Cmax when compared to 8 healthy subjects with normal hepatic function. The effect of severe (Child-Pugh Class C) hepatic impairment on the pharmacokinetics of RELISTOR injection has not been studied [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION, Use In Specific Populations].
In vitro, methylnaltrexone did not significantly inhibit or induce the activity of cytochrome P450 (CYP) isozymes CYP1A2, CYP2A6, CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, or CYP3A4. In addition, methylnaltrexone did not induce CYP2E1.
In vitro, the methylnaltrexone metabolites, methylnaltrexone sulfate, methyl-6α-naltrexol and methyl-6βnaltrexol did not inhibit CYP isozymes CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C8, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, or CYP3A4. The metabolites of methylnaltrexone did not induce activity of CYP1A2, CYP2B6, or CYP3A4.
Based on the in vitro studies, methylnaltrexone and its three major metabolites, methylnaltrexone sulfate, methyl-6α-naltrexol and methyl-6β-naltrexol, are unlikely to have clinically meaningful in vivo drug-drug interactions via inhibition of P-glycoprotein (P-gp), Breast Cancer Resistance Protein (BCRP), Multidrug Resistance Protein 2 (MRP2), Organic Anion-Transporting Polypeptide (OATP)1B1, OATP1B3, Organic Cation Transporter (OCT)1, OCT2, Organic Anion Transporter (OAT)1, OAT3, Multidrug and Toxic Extrusion Transporter (MATE)1 and MATE2-K at the recommended dosage of 450 mg orally or 12 mg subcutaneously once daily.
Methylnaltrexone
Methylnaltrexone was a substrate of OCT1, OCT2, MATE1, and MATE2-K, but not a substrate for P-gp, BCRP, MRP2, OATP1B1, OATP1B3, OAT1 and OAT3.
Methylnaltrexone Sulfate
Methylnaltrexone sulfate was a substrate for MATE2-K and a potential substrate of BCRP, but was not a substrate of P-gp, MRP2, OATP1B1, OATP1B3, OCT1, OCT2, OAT1, OAT3, and MATE1.
Methyl-6α-naltrexol
Methyl-6α-naltrexol was a substrate of BCRP, OCT1, OCT2, MATE1, and MATE2-K, but was not a substrate of P-gp, MRP2, OATP1B1, OATP1B3, OAT1 and OAT3.
Methyl-6β-naltrexol
Methyl-6β-naltrexol was a substrate of OCT1, OCT2, MATE1, and MATE2-K, but was not a substrate of P-gp, BCRP, MRP2, OATP1B1, OATP1B3, OAT1 and OAT3.
A clinical drug interaction study in healthy adult subjects evaluated the effects of cimetidine, a drug that inhibits the active renal secretion of organic cations, on the pharmacokinetics of methylnaltrexone (24 mg administered as an intravenous infusion over 20 minutes). A single dose of methylnaltrexone bromide was administered before cimetidine dosing and with the last dose of cimetidine (400 mg every 8 hours for 6 days). Mean Cmax and AUC of methylnaltrexone increased by 10% with concomitant cimetidine administration. The renal clearance of methylnaltrexone decreased about 40%. This change is not considered to be clinically meaningful.
In an in vitro human cardiac potassium ion channel (hERG) assay, methylnaltrexone caused concentration-dependent inhibition of hERG current (1%, 12%, 13% and 40% inhibition at 30, 100, 300 and 1000 micromolar concentrations, respectively). Methylnaltrexone had a hERG IC50 of more than1000 micromolar. In isolated dog Purkinje fibers, methylnaltrexone caused prolongations in action potential duration (APD). The highest tested concentration (10 micromolar) in the dog Purkinje fiber study was about 18 and 37 times the Cmax at human subcutaneous doses of 0.3 and 0.15 mg/kg, respectively. In isolated rabbit Purkinje fibers, methylnaltrexone (up to 100 micromolar) did not have an effect on APD, compared to vehicle control. The highest methylnaltrexone concentration (100 micromolar) tested was about 186 and 373 times the human Cmax at subcutaneous doses of 0.3 and 0.15 mg/kg, respectively. In anesthetized dogs, methylnaltrexone bromide caused decreases in blood pressure, heart rate, cardiac output, left ventricular pressure, left ventricular end diastolic pressure, and +dP/dt at 1 mg/kg or more. In conscious dogs, methylnaltrexone bromide caused a dose-related increase in QTc interval. After a single intravenous dosage of 20 mg/kg to beagle dogs, predicted Cmax and AUC values were approximately 482 and 144 times, respectively, the exposure at human subcutaneous dose of 0.15 mg/kg and 241 times and 66 times, respectively, the exposure at a human subcutaneous dose of 0.3 mg/kg. In conscious guinea pigs, methylnaltrexone bromide caused mild prolongation of QTc (4% over baseline) at 20 mg/kg, intravenous. A thorough QTc assessment was conducted in humans [see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY].
In juvenile rats administered intravenous methylnaltrexone bromide for 13 weeks, adverse clinical signs such as convulsions, tremors and labored breathing occurred at dosages of 3 and 10 mg/kg/day (about 2.4 and 8 times, respectively, the subcutaneous MRHD of 12 mg/day; about 0.06 and 0.22 times, respectively, the oral MRHD of 450 mg/day). Similar adverse clinical signs were seen in adult rats at 20 mg/kg/day (about 16 times the subcutaneous MRHD of 12 mg/day; about 0.43 times the oral MRHD of 450 mg/day). Juvenile rats were found to be more sensitive to the toxicity of methylnaltrexone bromide when compared to adults. The no observed adverse effect levels (NOAELs) in juvenile and adult rats were 1 and 5 mg/kg/day, respectively (about 0.8 and 4 times, respectively, the subcutaneous MRHD of 12 mg/day; about 0.02 and 0.11 times, respectively, the oral MRHD of 450 mg/day).
Juvenile dogs administered intravenous methylnaltrexone bromide for 13 weeks had a toxicity profile similar to adult dogs. Following intravenous administration of methylnaltrexone bromide for 13 weeks, decreased heart rate (13.2% reduction compared to pre-dose) in juvenile dogs and prolonged QTc interval in juvenile (9.6% compared to control) and adult (up to 15% compared to control) dogs occurred at 20 mg/kg/day (about 54 times the subcutaneous MRHD of 12 mg/day; about 1.5 times the oral MRHD of 450 mg/day). Clinical signs consistent with effects on the CNS (including tremors and decreased activity) occurred in both juvenile and adult dogs. The NOAELs in juvenile and adult dogs were 5 mg/kg/day (about 14 times the subcutaneous MRHD of 12 mg/day; about 0.4 times the oral MRHD of 450 mg/day).
The efficacy of RELISTOR tablets in the treatment of OIC in patients with chronic non-cancer pain was evaluated in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study (Study 1). This study compared 4-week treatment of RELISTOR tablets 450 mg orally once daily with placebo.
A total of 401 patients (200 RELISTOR, 201 placebo) were enrolled and treated in the double-blind period. Patients had a history of chronic non-cancer pain for which they were taking opioids. The most common pain condition requiring opioid use was back pain. Other frequently reported primary pain conditions were arthritis, neurologic/neuropathic pain, joint/extremity pain, and fibromyalgia. Prior to screening, patients were receiving opioid therapy for pain for 1 month or longer (median daily baseline oral morphine equivalent dose of 156 mg) and had OIC (less than 3 spontaneous bowel movements per week during the screening period). Constipation due to opioid use had to be associated with 1 or more of the following: A Bristol Stool Form Scale score of 1 or 2 for at least 25% of the bowel movements (BM), straining during at least 25% of the BMs or a sensation of incomplete evacuation after at least 25% of the BMs.
Patients were required to be on a stable opioid regimen (daily dose 50 mg or more of oral morphine equivalents per day) a minimum of 2 weeks prior to the screening visit and received their opioid medication during the study as clinically needed. The median duration of OIC at baseline was 53 months (4 years). The mean patient age was 52 years (range 23 to 78 years), 64% were female, and 84% of patients were Caucasian.
Eligible patients were required to discontinue all previous laxative therapy and use only the study-permitted rescue laxative (bisacodyl tablets). If patients did not have a bowel movement for 3 consecutive days during the study, they were permitted to use rescue medication (up to 3 bisacodyl tablets taken orally once during a 24hour period). Bisacodyl tablets were taken 5 hours or longer and up to 8 hours after study drug administration. If rescue treatment with bisacodyl tablets did not result in a bowel movement, a second dose of bisacodyl or an enema 24 hours after rescue was permitted. Enema use was permitted after rescue with bisacodyl tablets had failed at least once.
A responder analysis was performed which defined the proportion of patients with 3 or more spontaneous bowel movements (SBMs)/week, with an increase of 1 or more SBM/week over baseline, for 3 or more out of the first 4 weeks of the treatment period. A SBM was defined as a bowel movement that occurred without laxative use during the previous 24 hours. Table 8 presents the proportion of patients who responded during the double-blind treatment period in the intent-to-treat (ITT) population, which included all randomized patients who received at least one dose of double-blind study medication.
Table 8: Proportion of Responders* in the ITT
Population in Study 1 of RELISTOR Tablets for the Treatment of OIC in Patients
with Chronic Non-Cancer Pain
| Treatment | N | n (%) | Percent Differencea (2-sided 95% CI) |
| RELISTOR Tablets 450 mg Once Daily | 200 | 103 (52%) | 13% (3%, 23%) |
| Placebo | 201 | 77 (38%) | |
| CI = confidence interval; ITT = intent-to-treat; a Difference for active treatment vs. placebo; *A responder is defined as a patient with 3 or more SBMs/week, with an increase of 1 or more SBM/week over baseline, for 3 or more out of the first 4 weeks of the treatment period. |
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The efficacy of RELISTOR injection in the treatment of OIC in patients with chronic non-cancer pain were evaluated in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study (Study 2). This study compared 4-week treatment of RELISTOR injection 12 mg administered subcutaneously once daily with placebo.
A total of 312 patients (150 RELISTOR, 162 placebo) were enrolled and treated in the double-blind period. Patients had a history of chronic non-cancer pain for which they were taking opioids. The majority of patients had a primary diagnosis of back pain; other primary diagnoses included joint/extremity pain, fibromyalgia, neurologic/neuropathic pain, and rheumatoid arthritis. Prior to screening, patients had been receiving opioid therapy for pain for 1 month or longer (median daily baseline oral morphine equivalent dose of 161 mg) and had OIC (less than 3 spontaneous bowel movements per week during the screening period). Constipation due to opioid use had to be associated with 1 or more of the following: A Bristol Stool Form Scale score of 1 or 2 for at least 25% of the bowel movements (BM), straining during at least 25% of the BMs or a sensation of incomplete evacuation after at least 25% of the BMs.
Patients were required to be on a stable opioid regimen (daily dose 50 mg or more of oral morphine equivalents per day) for at least 2 weeks before the screening visit and received their opioid medication during the study as clinically needed. The median duration of OIC at baseline was 59 months (5 years). The median patient age at baseline was 49 years, 62% were females and 90% were Caucasian.
Eligible patients were required to discontinue all previous laxative therapy and use only the study-permitted rescue laxative (bisacodyl tablets). If patients did not have a bowel movement for 3 consecutive days during the study, they were permitted to use rescue medication (up to 4 bisacodyl tablets taken orally once during a 24hour period). Rescue laxatives were prohibited until at least 4 hours after taking an injection of study medication.
A responder analysis was performed which defined the proportion of patients with 3 or more (SBMs) per week for each of the 4 weeks of the double-blind period. A SBM was defined as a bowel movement that occurred without laxative use during the previous 24 hours. Table 9 presents the proportion of patients who responded during the double-blind treatment period in the modified intent-to-treat (mITT) population, which included all randomized subjects who received at least one dose of double-blind study medication.
Table 9: Proportion of Responders* in the mITT
Population in Study 2 of RELISTOR Injection for the Treatment of OIC in
Patients with Chronic Non-Cancer Pain
| Treatment | N | n (%) | Percent Differencea (2-sided 95% CI) | P-valueb |
| RELISTOR Injection 12 mg Once Daily | 150 | 88 (59%) | 20% (10%, 31%) |
<0.001 |
| Placebo | 162 | 62 (38%) | ||
| CI = confidence interval; mITT = modified
intent-to-treat; a Difference for active treatment vs. placebo; * A responder is defined as a patient with 3 or more SBMs per week for each of the 4 weeks in the double-blind period. b P-value for active treatment vs. placebo based on 2-sided Chi-square test. |
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Following the first dose, 33% of patients in the RELISTOR treatment group had a SBM within 4 hours and approximately half of patients had a SBM prior to the second dose of RELISTOR injection.
The efficacy of RELISTOR injection in the treatment of OIC in advanced illness patients receiving palliative care was demonstrated in two randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled studies. In these studies, the median age was 68 years (range 21 to 100 years); 51% were females. In both studies, patients had advanced illness and received care to control their symptoms. The majority of patients had a primary diagnosis of incurable cancer; other primary diagnoses included end-stage COPD/emphysema, cardiovascular disease/heart failure, Alzheimer's disease/dementia, HIV/AIDS, or other advanced illnesses. Prior to screening, patients had been receiving palliative opioid therapy (median daily baseline oral morphine equivalent dose of 172 mg), and had OIC (either less than 3 bowel movements in the preceding week or no bowel movement for 2 or more days). Patients were on a stable opioid regimen 3 or more days prior to randomization (not including PRN or rescue pain medication) and received their opioid medication during the study as clinically needed. Patients maintained their regular laxative regimen for at least 3 days prior to study entry, and throughout the study. Rescue laxatives were prohibited from 4 hours before to 4 hours after taking an injection of study medication.
Study 4 was a double-blind, placebo-controlled study which compared a single, subcutaneous dose of RELISTOR injection 0.15 mg/kg, and RELISTOR injection 0.3 mg/kg versus placebo. The double-blind dose was followed by an open-label 4-week dosing period, where RELISTOR injection could be used as needed, no more frequently than one dose in a 24-hour period. Throughout both study periods, patients maintained their regular laxative regimen. A total of 154 patients (47 RELISTOR 0.15 mg/kg, 55 RELISTOR 0.3 mg/kg, 52 placebo) were enrolled and treated in the double-blind period. The primary endpoint was the proportion of patients with a rescue-free laxation within 4 hours of the double-blind dose of study medication. RELISTOR-treated patients had a significantly higher rate of laxation within 4 hours of the double-blind dose (62% for 0.15 mg/kg and 58% for 0.3 mg/kg) than did placebo-treated patients (14%); p < 0.0001 for each dose versus placebo (Figure 1).
Study 5 was a double-blind, placebo-controlled study which compared subcutaneous doses of RELISTOR injection given every other day for 2 weeks versus placebo. Patients received opioid medication for at least 2 weeks prior to receiving study medication. During the first week (Days 1, 3, 5, 7) patients received either 0.15 mg/kg RELISTOR injection or placebo. In the second week the patient's assigned dose could be increased to 0.3 mg/kg if the patient had 2 or fewer rescue-free laxations up to Day 8. At any time, the patient's assigned dose could be reduced based on tolerability. Data from 133 (62 RELISTOR, 71 placebo) patients were analyzed. There were 2 primary endpoints: proportion of patients with a rescue-free laxation within 4 hours of the first dose of study medication and proportion of patients with a rescue-free laxation within 4 hours after at least 2 of the first 4 doses of study medication. RELISTOR-treated patients had a higher rate of laxation within 4 hours of the first dose (48%) than placebo-treated patients (16%); p <0.0001 (Figure 1). RELISTOR-treated patients also had significantly higher rates of laxation within 4 hours after at least 2 of the first 4 doses (52%) than did placebo-treated patients (9%); p <0.0001. In both studies, in approximately 30% of patients, laxation was reported within 30 minutes of a dose of RELISTOR.
Figure 1: Laxation Response within 4 Hours of the
First Dose in Studies 4 and 5
 |
In both studies, there was no evidence of differential effects of age or gender on safety or efficacy. No meaningful subgroup analysis could be conducted on race because the study population was predominantly Caucasian (88%).
Durability of response was explored in Study 5, and the laxation response rate was consistent from dose 1 through dose 7 over the course of the 2-week, double-blind period.
The efficacy of RELISTOR injection was also demonstrated in open-label treatment administered from Day 2 through Week 4 in Study 4, and in two open-label extension studies (Study 4 EXT and Study 5 EXT) in which RELISTOR was given as needed for up to 4 months. During open-label treatment, patients maintained their regular laxative regimen. A total of 136, 21, and 82 patients received at least one open-label dose in Studies 4, 4 EXT, and 5 EXT, respectively. Laxation response was also explored in this open-label setting and appeared to be maintained over the course of 3 to 4 months of open-label treatment.
No relationship between baseline opioid dose and laxation response in RELISTOR-treated patients was identified in exploratory analyses of these studies. In addition, median daily opioid dose did not vary meaningfully from baseline in either RELISTOR-treated patients or in placebo-treated patients. There were no clinically relevant changes in pain scores from baseline in either the RELISTOR or placebo-treated patients.
RELISTOR®
(rel-i–store)
(methylnaltrexone bromide) tablets and
RELISTOR
(rel-i–store)
(methylnaltrexone bromide) injection, for subcutaneous use
What is the most important information I should know about RELISTOR?
RELISTOR can cause serious side effects, including:
What is RELISTOR?
RELISTOR is a prescription medicine used to treat constipation in adults that is caused by prescription pain medicines called opioids:
It is not known if RELISTOR is safe and effective if used for longer than 4 months in people with advanced illness.
It is not known if RELISTOR is safe and effective in children.
Who should not use RELISTOR?
Do not use RELISTOR if you have a bowel blockage (intestinal obstruction) or have a history of bowel blockage.
What should I tell my healthcare provider before taking RELISTOR?
Before you start taking RELISTOR, tell your healthcare provider about all of your medical conditions, including if you:
Tell your healthcare provider about all of the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
How should I take RELISTOR?
Tablets:
Injection (Vials and Pre-filled Syringes):
See the detailed “Instructions for Use” that comes with RELISTOR injection for information about how to prepare and inject RELISTOR injection, and properly throw away (dispose of) used needles and syringes the right way.
What are the possible side effects of RELISTOR?
See “What is the most important information I should know about RELISTOR?”
Tell your healthcare provider if you have any side effect that bothers you or that does not go away. These are not all of the possible side effects of RELISTOR.
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
You may also report side effects to Valeant Pharmaceuticals North America LLC at 1-800-321-4576.
How should I store RELISTOR?
RELISTOR tablets:
RELISTOR injection (Vials and Pre-filled Syringes):
Keep RELISTOR and all medicines, needles and syringes out of the reach of children.
General information about the safe and effective use of RELISTOR
Medicines are sometimes prescribed for purposes other than those listed in a Medication Guide. Do not use RELISTOR for a condition for which it was not prescribed. Do not give RELISTOR to other people, even if they have the same symptoms that you have. It may harm them. You can ask your pharmacist or healthcare provider for information about RELISTOR that is written for health professionals.
What are the ingredients in RELISTOR tablets and RELISTOR injection?
Active ingredient: methylnaltrexone bromide
Inactive ingredients (tablets): silicified microcrystalline cellulose, microcrystalline cellulose, sodium lauryl sulfate, croscarmellose sodium, crospovidone, poloxamer 407, stearic acid (vegetable source), colloidal silicon dioxide, edentate calcium disodium, polyvinyl alcohol, titanium dioxide, polyethylene glycol and talc
Inactive ingredients (injection: vials and pre-filled syringes): sodium chloride USP, edetate calcium disodium USP, glycine hydrochloride. During manufacture, the pH may have been adjusted with hydrochloric acid and/or sodium hydroxide.
This Medication Guide has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
Instructions for Use
RELISTOR®
(rel-i-store)
(methylnaltrexone bromide) injection, for subcutaneous use
Pre-filled Syringe
Read this Instructions for Use before you start using RELISTOR and each time you get a refill. There may be new information. This information does not take the place of talking to your healthcare provider about your medical condition or your treatment.
The following instructions explain how to prepare and give an injection of RELISTOR the right way, when using a prefilled syringe of RELISTOR.
Important information:
Gather the supplies you will need for your injection (See Figure A). These include:
Figure A
 |
Step 1: Choose and prepare the injection site
Figure B Abdomen or thigh – use these sites when injecting yourself or another person.
Figure C Upper arm – use this site only when injecting another person.
Figure B and C
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Figure D
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Step 2: Prepare the pre-filled syringe
Figure E
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Figure F
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Step 3: Inject RELISTOR
Figure G
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Figure H
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Figure I
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Figure J
 |
Figure K
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Step 4: Dispose of used pre-filled syringes and needles
How should I store RELISTOR?
Keep RELISTOR and all medicines, needles and syringes out of the reach of children.
For more information, go to www.Relistor.com or call 1-800-321-4576.
This Instructions for Use has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
Instructions for Use
RELISTOR®
(rel-i-store)
(methylnaltrexone bromide)
injection, for subcutaneous use
Vial and Syringe with Retractable Needle in Tray
Read this Instructions for Use before you start using RELISTOR and each time you get a refill. There may be new information. This information does not take the place of talking to your healthcare provider about your medical condition or your treatment.
The following instructions explain how to prepare and give an injection of RELISTOR the right way, when using a RELISTOR tray containing a syringe with a retractable needle. A retractable needle is one that is pulled back so that it is covered after use, to prevent needle-stick injury.
Important information:
Your tray should include (See Figure A):
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You will also need:
Step 1: Choose and prepare the injection site
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Step 2: Prepare the injection
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Step 3: Prepare the syringe
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Check to be sure that you have the right dose of RELISTOR in the syringe.
Step 4: Inject RELISTOR
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Step 5: Dispose of used syringes and needles
How should I store RELISTOR?
Keep RELISTOR and all medicines, needles and syringes out of the reach of children.
Instructions for Use
RELISTOR®
(rel-i-store)
(methylnaltrexone bromide)
injection, for subcutaneous use
Vial
Read this Instructions for Use before you start using RELISTOR and each time you get a refill. There may be new information. This information does not take the place of talking to your healthcare provider about your medical condition or your treatment.
The following instructions explain how to prepare and give an injection of RELISTOR the right way, when using a vial of RELISTOR.
Important information:
Gather the supplies you will need for your injection (See Figure A.).
These include:
 |
Step 1: Choose and prepare the injection site
 |
 |
Step 2: Prepare the injection
 |
Step 3: Prepare the syringe
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
Check to be sure that you have the right dose of RELISTOR in the syringe.
Step 4: Inject RELISTOR
 |
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Step 5: Dispose of used syringes and needles
How should I store RELISTOR?
Keep RELISTOR and all medicines, needles and syringes out of the reach of children.
For more information, go to www.Relistor.com or call 1-800-321-4576
This Instructions for Use has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
