Description
Tapentadol acts on opioid receptors and reduces the re-uptake of nor-adrenaline, helping modify pain signals in the nervous system. Immediate-release and prolonged-release tablets deliver the medicine differently and require different dosing schedules.
What it is used for
Immediate-release tapentadol is used for acute pain severe enough to require an opioid when other treatments are inadequate. Prolonged-release formulations are used for severe, persistent pain requiring ongoing opioid treatment. The appropriate indication depends on the exact product.
Side effects
Frequently reported effects include nausea, vomiting, constipation, dizziness, headache and sleepiness.
Seek emergency medical help for slow or shallow breathing, extreme drowsiness, difficulty waking, collapse or facial or throat swelling. Seizures and serotonin syndrome—potentially involving agitation, fever, sweating and muscle stiffness—also require urgent assessment. This list is not exhaustive.
Avoid alcohol. Combining tapentadol with sleeping tablets, benzodiazepines, other opioids, pregabalin or gabapentin can increase the risk of breathing suppression, coma and death. Antidepressants require an interaction check. Tapentadol must not be used with MAOIs or within 14 days of stopping them.
Significant breathing suppression and suspected bowel obstruction are important contraindications. Do not drive or operate machinery if impaired.
Recommended dosage
The dose depends on the release formulation, pain severity, previous opioid treatment and medical history. A 100 mg tablet is not a universal starting dose. A dosing interval or maximum daily dose cannot be assigned safely until the release type is confirmed.
Follow the prescription and exact product leaflet. Prolonged-release tablets must not be crushed or chewed. Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest necessary duration, with regular review. After regular use, do not stop suddenly without a clinician-guided reduction plan.
Storage guidelines
Store in a cool, dark place. Keep out of children’s sight and reach and do not use after expiry.
