Relistor Side Effects

Generic name: methylnaltrexone

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Jul 25, 2024.

Note: This document provides detailed information about Relistor Side Effects associated with methylnaltrexone. Some dosage forms listed on this page may not apply specifically to the brand name Relistor.

Applies to methylnaltrexone: subcutaneous solution.

Other dosage forms:

• oral tablet

Serious side effects of Relistor

Along with its needed effects, methylnaltrexone (the active ingredient contained in Relistor) may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur while taking methylnaltrexone:

More common side effects

• diarrhea
• increased sweating

Incidence not known

• bloody, black, or tarry stools
• heartburn
• indigestion
• nausea
• severe abdominal or stomach pain, cramping, or burning
• trouble breathing
• vomiting of material that looks like coffee grounds, severe and continuous

Get emergency help immediately if any of the following symptoms of overdose occur while taking methylnaltrexone:

Symptoms of overdose

• chills
• cold sweats
• confusion
• dizziness, faintness, or lightheadedness when getting up suddenly from a lying or sitting position

Other side effects of Relistor

Some side effects of methylnaltrexone may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.

Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

More common side effects

• bloated
• dizziness
• excess air or gas in the stomach or intestines
• feeling of fullness
• passing of gas
• stomach pain

For healthcare professionals

Applies to methylnaltrexone: oral tablet, subcutaneous kit, subcutaneous solution.

General adverse events

The most common adverse reactions included abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhea, hyperhidrosis, hot flush, tremor, and chills.^[Ref]

Nervous system

• Common (1% to 10%): Dizziness, tremor^[Ref]

Dermatologic

• Common (1% to 10%): Hyperhidrosis, flushing^[Ref]

Other

• Common (1% to 10%): Chills
• Postmarketing reports: Malaise, pain, cases of opioid withdrawal^[Ref]

Cardiovascular

• Frequency not reported: Myocardial infarctions^[Ref]

In an open-label, uncontrolled study (n=1034), 4 myocardial infarctions (1 fatal), 1 stroke (fatal), 1 fatal cardiac arrest, and 1 sudden death were reported. It is not possible to establish a relationship between these events and use of this drug.^[Ref]

Gastrointestinal

• Very common (10% or more): Abdominal pain (up to 29%), flatulence (up to 13%), nausea (up to 12%)
• Common (1% to 10%): Diarrhea,
• Postmarketing reports: Perforation, cramping, vomiting^[Ref]

Local

• Common (1% to 10%): Injection site reactions including stinging, burning, pain, redness, and edema^[Ref]

Frequently asked questions

• Which drugs cause opioid-induced constipation?

Further information

Relistor side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Note: Medication side effects may be underreported. If you are experiencing side effects that are not listed, submit a report to the FDA by following this guide.

Medical Disclaimer