What is this medication?
ALVIMOPAN (AL vi MOE pan) helps reduce recovery time after bowel surgery. It works by helping your body restore normal bowel function.
This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Entereg
What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
- Heart disease
- Kidney disease
- Liver disease
- Taking pain medications (e.g., codeine, morphine)
- Undergoing surgery for stomach or intestinal blockage
- An unusual or allergic reaction to alvimopan, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
- Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
- Breast-feeding
How should I use this medication?
Take this medication by mouth with a glass of water. It will only be given to you by your care team while you are in the hospital.
Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. Special care may be needed.
Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.
What if I miss a dose?
It is important not to miss your dose. Talk to your care team if you miss a dose.
What may interact with this medication?
- Amiodarone
- Cyclosporine
- Itraconazole
- Narcotic medications for pain
- Quinidine
- Quinine
- Spironolactone
- Verapamil
This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.
What should I watch for while using this medication?
Your condition will be monitored carefully while you are receiving this medication.
What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?
Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:
- Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Heart attack—pain or tightness in the chest, shoulders, arms, or jaw, nausea, shortness of breath, cold or clammy skin, feeling faint or lightheaded
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):
- Upset stomach
This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Where should I keep my medication?
This does not apply.
NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.