Abstract
Introduction: Common opioids adverse effects include opioid–induced bowel dysfunction (OIBD), which comprises opioid–induced constipation, dry mouth, nausea, vomiting, gastric stasis, bloating, and abdominal pain. Traditional laxatives which are often prescribed for the prevention and treatment of OIBD possess limited efficacy and display adverse effects. A targeted approach to OIBD management is the use of a combination of an opioid agonist with opioid receptor antagonist or administration of purely peripherally acting opioid receptor antagonists.
Methods: A literature search with terms “oxycodone/naloxone” in the PubMed and MEDLINE database updated on 31st July 2013. All studies of oxycodone/naloxone (randomized, controlled trials and open, uncontrolled studies) were included. In addition, studies on pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of oxycodone/naloxone were included.
Results: A combination of prolonged–release oxycodone with prolonged–release naloxone (OXN) in one tablet with a fixed 2:1 ratio provides effective analgesia with limited disturbing effect on bowel function. Oxycodone is a valued opioid administered either as the first strong opioid or when other strong opioids have been ineffective. Naloxone is an opioid receptor antagonist that displays local antagonist effect on opioid receptors in the gastrointestinal tract and is nearly completely inactivated in the liver after oral administration. As demonstrated in controlled studies conducted in patients with chronic non–malignant and cancer–related pain OXN in daily doses up to 80 mg/40 mg provided equally effective analgesia with an improved bowel function compared to oxycodone administered alone.
Conclusion: OXN is an important drug for chronic pain management, prevention and treatment of OIBD.
Keywords: Opioid–induced bowel dysfunction, opioid–induced constipation, opioid receptor antagonists, oxycodone/ naloxone, pain.
Call for Papers in Thematic Issues
Drug-Targeted Approach with Polymer Nanocomposites for Improved Therapeutics
Polymer nanocomposites have been recognized as an advanced and cutting-edge technique in drug targeting administration. These materials combine the unique features of nanoparticles with the adaptability of polymers to produce highly personalized drug administration devices. Integrating nanoparticles containing pharmaceuticals into a polymer matrix enables researchers to regulate the rates at ...read more
New drug therapy for eye diseases
Eyesight is one of the most critical senses, accounting for over 80% of our perceptions. Our quality of life might be significantly affected by eye disease, including glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, dry eye, etc. Although the development of microinvasive ocular surgery reduces surgical complications and improves overall outcomes, medication therapy is ...read more
Therapeutic Chemical and RNA Design with Artificial Intelligence
Computer-Aided Drug Design (CADD) has emerged as a fundamental component of modern drug discovery. Molecular docking facilitates virtual screening on a large scale through structural simulations. However, traditional CADD approaches face significant limitations, as they can only screen known compounds from existing libraries. PubChem, as the most widely used chemical ...read more
Related Journals
Anti-Cancer Agents in Medicinal Chemistry
Anti-Inflammatory & Anti-Allergy Agents in Medicinal Chemistry
Current Bioactive Compounds
Current Cancer Drug Targets
Combinatorial Chemistry & High Throughput Screening
Current Cancer Therapy Reviews
Current Diabetes Reviews
Current Drug Safety
Current Drug Therapy
Current Drug Delivery
Related Books
Anthocyanins: Pharmacology and Nutraceutical Importance
Computer-Aided Drug Discovery Methods: A Brief Introduction
The Roles and Responsibilities of Clinical Pharmacists in Hospital Settings
Bioactive Compounds from Medicinal Plants for Cancer Therapy and Chemoprevention
Drug Addiction Mechanisms in the Brain
Software and Programming Tools in Pharmaceutical Research
Objective Pharmaceutics: A Comprehensive Compilation of Questions and Answers for Pharmaceutics Exam Prep
Medicinal Chemistry of Drugs Affecting Cardiovascular and Endocrine Systems
Medicinal Plants, Phytomedicines and Traditional Herbal Remedies for Drug Discovery and Development against COVID-19
Advanced Pharmacy
73
