Compare Relistor vs. Movantik

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, ratings, and more.

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Relistor (methylnaltrexone)

Prescription only

Movantik (naloxegol)

Prescription only
Treats opioid-induced constipation.

When laxatives aren't enough, Relistor (methylnaltrexone) can help treat constipation caused by opioids without affecting opioid pain relief.

Relieves constipation caused by opioid pain relievers.

Movantik (naloxegol) is a good option for treating constipation due to the use of opioids. However, it can cause side effects that make you feel like you are going through opioid withdrawal.

Upsides
  • Relistor (methylnaltrexone) relieves your constipation with an easy to take once daily dose.
  • It’s an effective option when other constipation medicines don’t work for you.
  • Fast relief allows you to predict when your bowel movement will occur, allowing you to plan your day.
  • You might be eligible for a savings card that lowers your copay. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist.
  • Is a good option if traditional laxatives have not worked for you.
  • Take Movantik (naloxegol) only once a day.
  • Compared to alternatives, this medicine doesn't affect your heart.
Downsides
  • Relistor (methylnaltrexone) is generally reserved for more severe constipation. Your doctor will have you try other constipation medications first.
  • It’s more expensive than other medicines used to treat constipation.
  • Let your doctor know what other medications you are currently taking as certain drugs can interact with Relistor (methylnaltrexone).
  • Side effects of Movantik (naloxegol), including withdrawal and loss of pain control, may be worse in people taking certain opiates, such as methadone.
  • More expensive than traditional laxatives. There is no generic available.
  • Need to take this medicine on an empty stomach or it won't work as well.
  • You may have to take a lower dose of Movantik (naloxegol) if you have kidney problems, which may be less effective or cause more side effects.
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Used for
  • Opioid-induced constipation
  • Opioid induced constipation
Dosage forms
  • Pill
  • Injection
  • Pill
Price
Lowest price
$2230.20
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Lowest price
$390.92
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Reviews
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Side effects
5possible side effects
  • Stomach pain
    28%
  • Passing gas
    13%
  • Nausea
    12%
  • Dizziness
    7%
  • Diarrhea
    6%
See more detailed side effects
7possible side effects
  • Abdominal pain
    21%
  • Diarrhea
    9%
  • Nausea
    8%
  • Gas
    6%
  • Vomiting
    5%
  • Headache
    4%
  • Excess sweating
    3%
See more detailed side effects
Risks and risk factors
  • Hole in the bowel
    • History of bowel or stomach problems
  • Diarrhea
  • Opioid withdrawal
  • Bad liver function
    • History of liver problems
  • Bad kidney function
    • History of kidney problems
See more detailed risks and warnings
  • Opioid withdrawal & reduced pain relief
    • Methadone use
  • Severe abdominal pain and/or diarrhea
    • Movantik 25mg
  • Stomach or intestinal holes
    • Crohns disease
    • Peptic ulcer disease
    • Diverticular disease
    • Stomach malignancies
See more detailed risks and warnings
Learn more about Relistor (methylnaltrexone)
Learn more about Movantik (naloxegol)