Methylnaltrexone bromide: new drug for the treatment of opioid-induced bowel dysfunction.

Constipation is a common problem associated with opiates and opioid compounds used for the treatment of pain and other medical conditions, and can influence patient quality of life. Methylnaltrexone appears effective in the therapy of opioid-induced constipation and will be useful for patients failing to respond to traditional laxative regimens.