Sometimes, when you use strong painkillers for a long time, some people get constipated, right? It's really a very annoying and uncomfortable situation. So today we are talking about a special medicine that is given to treat constipation, especially that caused by painkillers of the (Opioid) category. The name of this medicine is Naldemedine.
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Simply put, what is this medicine called Naldemedine?
Simply put, Naldemedine is a pill used to treat constipation caused by opioid painkillers.
Think about it, the painkiller you take not only reduces pain, but also slows down the movement of your intestines. Like a traffic jam, the movement of stool through your intestines slows down. This is what causes constipation.
So this Naldemedine pill does a really amazing job. It goes right into your intestines and takes the painkiller out of your intestines. That is, it doesn't interfere with your body's pain control, but it just gives your intestines a signal to "don't get stuck, just work normally." This allows the muscles in your intestines to function properly again, making it easier to pass stool.
The most important thing is that this is not a medicine for general constipation. It is only used for constipation caused by opioid painkillers.
Things you need to tell your doctor before taking this medicine
Before starting this medication, it is very important to give your doctor a complete description of your health condition. Because this medication is not suitable for everyone. Especially if you have the following conditions, be sure to inform your doctor about it.
- Intestinal problems:
- If you have had a bowel blockage before.
- If you have cancer or a tumor in the stomach or intestines.
- If you have had a stomach ulcer.
- If you have a condition like Diverticulitis (small pouches in the intestines that form and cause inflammation).
- If you have other intestinal diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease or Ogilvie's syndrome.
- Other medical conditions:
- Kidney disease
- Liver disease
- Allergies:
- If you have an allergy to Naldemedine or any other medicine, food, or dye.
- Special occasions:
- If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant.
- If you are a breastfeeding mother.
Based on this information, it will be easier for your doctor to decide whether this medication is right for you or not.
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The method of using this medicine is very simple.
- Swallow the pill with a glass of water. Take only the prescribed dose as prescribed by your doctor.
- You can take it before or after a meal. However, if you feel a little upset stomach after taking the medicine, it is better to take it with a meal.
- Most importantly: If you stop taking an opioid painkiller for pain, tell your doctor. If you stop taking the painkiller, you must also stop taking this Naldemedine medicine. Because this medicine is only needed when you are taking that painkiller.
- Never increase the dosage of medication or stop it suddenly without the advice of your doctor.
What if I take too much medicine?
If you have even the slightest suspicion that you have taken more medicine than you think, don't panic. Immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital . Or, go to the Emergency Department (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
Remember, this medicine is prescribed for you only. Never share it with anyone else.
What if I miss a dose of medication?
If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Never take two doses at the same time to make up for a missed dose.
What are the possible side effects?
As with any medication, there are some side effects that can occur. Some of these require immediate medical attention, while others usually subside over time.
| Naldemedine side effects | |
|---|---|
| 🚨 Serious side effects that should be reported to your doctor immediately | |
| Allergic Reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat. |
| Severe stomach pain | Persistent, severe, or worsening stomach pain. (This could be a sign of a more serious condition, such as a perforation in the intestine.) |
| 🙂 Side effects that are usually not serious, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist. | |
| Diarrhea | Flatulence. |
| Nausea | Feeling like vomiting. |
| Vomiting | Vomiting. |
| Stomach ache | Moderate stomach pain. |
This list does not include all side effects. If you experience any other unusual symptoms, talk to your doctor about them as well.
Other things that may interact with this medicine
Some other medications, vitamins, and herbal products you are taking may interact with Naldemedine. Therefore, it is very important to tell your doctor about all medications, vitamins, and herbal products you are taking.
For example, antifungals (Ketoconazole), some antibiotics (Clarithromycin), Rifampin, and St. John's Wort may interact with this medication. This is not a complete list. So for your safety, tell your doctor everything.
How should you store your medicine?
- Keep out of reach of children and pets .
- Store at room temperature (between 15-30 degrees Celsius). Protect from excessive heat and moisture.
- Throw away expired pills.
💡 Take-Home Message
- Naldemedine is not a medicine for general constipation. It is only used for constipation caused by opioid painkillers.
- Before taking this medicine, you should tell your doctor about all your medical conditions and all other medications you are taking.
- If you stop taking opioid painkillers, you should also stop taking Naldemedine.
- If you experience severe stomach pain or allergic symptoms, seek medical advice immediately.
- This medicine is for you only. Never let anyone else use it.
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