Medicines
Discover all available medicines and treatments
Discover all available medicines and treatments
Brand: Nucynta, Palexia
Tapentadol is a centrally acting synthetic opioid analgesic of the benzenoid class. It has a dual mechanism of action: mu-opioid receptor agonism and norepinephrine reuptake inhibition. This dual action contributes to its analgesic properties and may offer some advantages in certain types of pain, including neuropathic pain. Tapentadol is available in immediate-release and extended-release formulations.
For the management of moderate to severe acute pain and chronic pain, including neuropathic pain associated with diabetic peripheral neuropathy.
Tapentadol carries a Black Box Warning for risks of addiction, abuse, and misuse, which can lead to overdose and death. Respiratory depression and neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome are also highlighted risks.
Outcome:
Increased sedation, respiratory depression
Mechanism:
Additive CNS depressant effects
Outcome:
Increased constipation, urinary retention
Mechanism:
Additive anticholinergic effects
Outcome:
Slightly decreased tapentadol absorption
Mechanism:
Altered gastric pH
Most likely new formulation: abuse-deterrent formulation (2025, 70% confidence)
Based on current usage trends and safety profile, there is a low (5%) likelihood of regulatory changes impacting tapentadol's availability in the next 2 years.
Opioid Analgesic, Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitor
Benzenoid