Brand Name: Movantik
Generic Name: naloxegol tablets

Medication Class: naloxegol is a peripherally acting mu-opioid receptor antagonist (PAMORA)
Similar Drugs: Other PAMORA medications include Symproic (naldemedine), Entereg (alvimopan) and Relistor (methylnaltrexone)
Manufacturer: AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals LP and Nektar Pharmaceuticals
FDA Approval Date: September 16, 2014

What is Movantik and its mechanism of action?

Movantik is an opioid antagonist that selectively blocks the mu receptors in the gastrointestinal tract, and, as a result, reduces constipation caused from chronic opioid use. It is a peripherally acting mu-opioid receptor antagonist (PAMORA). The active ingredient in Movantik, naloxegol, is a pegylated form of naloxone. Naloxone is a pure opioid antagonist used for the treatment of opioid overdose.

Opioids are narcotic medications used for the treatment of pain. Examples include hydrocodone, oxycodone, morphine, codeine, hydromorphone, and fentanyl. Opioids reduce pain in the body by binding to mu, kappa, and delta receptors. These receptors are found throughout the body, but pain relief from these medications is mostly due to their ability to cross the blood-brain barrier and act in the brain and spinal cord. In addition to being the primary opioid receptor responsible for the majority of the pain relief experienced by opioids, the mu opioid receptor is also found in high numbers in the gastrointestinal tract where if activated can lead to constipation (especially at high doses of opioids used for long periods of time). Movantik selectively blocks mu receptors found in the gastrointestinal tract and not elsewhere in the body (particularly the mu receptors in the brain and spinal cord). Therefore, it reduces the constipating effects of opioids in the gastrointestinal tract while still maintaining the pain fighting properties of opioids elsewhere in the body. Movantik helps treat constipation in persons that use opioid medications chronically to manage pain.

What is Movantik approved for treating?

Movantik is approved for treatment of opioid-induced constipation (OIC) in adults with chronic non-cancer pain. Patients that use opioid medications to manage chronic pain often experience constipation and use of Movantik in conjunction with opioid pain medications may help reduce this unpleasant side effect.

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