Moventig (Naloxegol)

Naloxegol is used to manage opioid‑induced constipation, a gastrointestinal disorder associated with opioid therapy.

• Opioid‑induced constipation: restores normal bowel movements in adults on chronic opioid therapy.
• Opioid‑related gastrointestinal hypomotility: improves intestinal transit and reduces stool retention.
• Patients receiving strong analgesics: alleviates constipation symptoms without affecting analgesia.

• Naloxegol selectively antagonizes μ‑opioid receptors located in the gastrointestinal tract while remaining excluded from the central nervous system. By blocking opioid binding peripherally, it prevents opioid‑mediated reduction of intestinal motility, thereby enhancing bowel transit and facilitating normal stool formation in patients receiving opioid therapy.

Naloxegol may cause a range of adverse reactions, most of which are mild and transient.

Common Side Effects

• Abdominal pain: mild to moderate discomfort in the abdomen.
• Diarrhea: increased frequency of loose stools.
• Nausea: feeling of sickness or urge to vomit.
• Flatulence: excess gas and bloating.
• Vomiting: expulsion of stomach contents.
• Constipation: occasional paradoxical worsening of bowel movements.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Intestinal obstruction: signs of blockage requiring medical attention.
• Severe abdominal pain: persistent or worsening pain.
• Allergic reactions: rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
• Hepatic enzyme elevation: abnormal liver function tests.
• Pancreatitis: inflammation of the pancreas presenting with upper abdominal pain.

Before initiating therapy, clinicians should evaluate patient-specific factors and monitor for potential complications.

• Assess renal function: avoid or adjust use in severe renal impairment.
• Monitor for abdominal pain: discontinue if signs of obstruction appear.
• Avoid in known hypersensitivity: do not prescribe to patients with documented allergy to naloxegol.
• Caution in gastrointestinal disorders: use carefully in patients with Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis.
• Store at ambient temperature: keep in the original packaging, protect from moisture and light.

Naloxegol can interact with other medicines that affect its metabolism or transport.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors: may markedly increase naloxegol exposure and risk of adverse events.
• Concomitant opioid antagonists: can reduce the intended effect on constipation.
• P‑glycoprotein inhibitors: may raise systemic concentrations.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors: may require dose adjustment or closer monitoring.
• P‑glycoprotein inducers: could lower naloxegol effectiveness.
• Anticholinergic agents: may exacerbate constipation if used together.