Entereg eases recovery from postoperative ileus
Entereg is cleared to restore bowel function to patients who have undergone abdominal surgery.
Tips to Remember Entereg
Alvimopan's product labeling includes a boxed warning stating that the drug is available only for short-term use (15 doses) and for hospitals that complete a registration process [Entereg Access Support and Education (E.A.S.E.) program] designed to prevent outpatient use of the drug. This Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) seeks to ensure that the benefits of the drug outweigh the risks. These precautions are likely a result of preliminary Phase III data indicating an increased incidence of neoplasms and cardiovascular events among patients treated with alvimopan over a 12-month period for chronic opioid-induced bowel dysfunction. In contrast, methylnaltrexone does not appear to have these safety issues but it is contraindicated in those with GI obstruction.
THE AUTHOR is a writer and hospital pharmacist based in New Jersey.
