Methylnaltrexone, a new peripheral mu-receptor antagonist for the prevention and treatment of opioid-induced extracerebral side effects.

Abstract

Progenics Pharmaceuticals Inc and Wyeth Pharmaceuticals are developing methylnaltrexone, a micro-receptor opioid antagonist derived from naltrexone by the addition of a methyl group. The intravenous formulation of methylnaltrexone is currently in phase III clinical trials for the potential treatment of postoperative ileus.