Tapentadol is a prescription-based medication primarily used to reduce severe, short-term pain. It is an opioid pain medication that works by altering how the brain and body perceive and respond to pain signals. While it provides effective relief from pain, long-term use can lead to physical dependence, meaning that suddenly stopping the medicine can trigger a range of withdrawal symptoms.

Tapentadol withdrawal can be challenging, and it’s crucial to approach this process cautiously. For many individuals, the recovery journey can feel overwhelming, but understanding what to expect during tapentadol withdrawal can help make the process manageable, whether you’re trying to quit the opioid pain medication yourself or supporting a loved one through it.

Tapentadol Overview

Tapentadol is a centrally acting pain medicine approved by the US Food and Drug Administration in 2011 for managing moderate to severe pain.

Tapentadol tablets are available in extended-release (ER) and immediate-release (IR)  formulations [1].

Tapentadol tablets are marketed under brands such as Noosanta 100 mg, Topcynta 100 mg, Tapaday 100 and 200 mg, and Aspadol 100 and 200 mg.

Withdrawal From Tapentadol

While taking Tapentadol as prescribed by a healthcare provider can reduce the risk of becoming addicted to it, it doesn’t eliminate it. Even when Tapentadol is taken responsibly, long-term use of this medication increases the likelihood of developing tapentadol addiction.

When you’re dependent on tapentadol and suddenly quit taking this medication, you may experience uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms.

If you are considering discontinuing Tapentadol treatment, meet with your medical provider to discuss other options. In most scenarios, doctors lower a patient’s Tapentadol dose gradually over time to allow the patient’s body adequate time to adjust to less and less of the medication. This process is known as the tapering off approach. Do not suddenly stop taking this medication.

Common Tapentadol Withdrawal Symptoms

The most common symptoms of Tapentadol withdrawal include [2]:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Breathing difficulties
• Anxiety
• Diarrhea
• Sweating
• Stomach ache
• Runny nose
• Increased heartbeat
• Pupil dilation
• Tremors
• Restlessness
• Muscle aches
• Shivering
• Goosebumps

Tapentadol Withdrawal Timeline

A typical withdrawal from Tapentadol timeline might look like this [1]:

Day 1

Depending on the drug’s formula, you might start facing the first Tapentadol withdrawal symptoms 6-30 hours after taking the last dosage. On average, Tapentadol remains in your system for 22 hours after the previous dose.

The first signs are typically nausea, vomiting, and flu-like symptoms such as a runny nose and headaches.

Day 2-4

Tapentadol withdrawal symptoms, such as sweating, anxiety, diarrhea, and insomnia, typically peak within the first few days after the last dose of the drug.

Day 5 and Beyond

Within the first week, physical withdrawal symptoms begin to subside, but the psychological symptoms, such as cravings, may remain for an extended period.

How Long Do Tapentadol Withdrawal Symptoms Last?

If you’re taking Tapentadol regularly for a year, then you will likely experience Tapentadol withdrawal symptoms longer than someone who took it for a month.

In most cases, most withdrawal symptoms of Tapentadol subside within a week or two.

If your symptoms last for several weeks or even longer, you may be undergoing post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS). PAWS is characterized by persistent withdrawal symptoms, including: depression, poor concentration, mood swings, cravings, irritability, fatigue, sleep disturbances, and impaired memory [4].

Risks, Dangers, and Side Effects of Tapentadol

Some of the most common adverse effects associated with Tapentadol use are:

• Nausea
• Constipation
• Vomiting
• Drowsiness
• Lightheadedness

Besides these, Tapentadol use can cause serious side effects that require immediate medical attention. Consult your health care provider if you notice the following side effects:

• Appetite loss
• Difficulty urinating
• Abdominal pain
• Fainting
• Stomach ache
• Weight loss
• Seizures.

Since the use of Tapentadol pain relief medication may cause drowsiness and decrease concentration, you should avoid operating heavy machinery or driving until you learn how this medication affects you.

Tapentadol may cause life-threatening withdrawal symptoms in a newborn baby if the mother has taken this opioid pain medication during pregnancy.

Abstain from taking Tapentadol if you have severe breathing problems.

How To Manage Tapentadol Withdrawal Symptoms

Managing Tapentadol withdrawal symptoms is not an easy task because it can be dangerous. Due to this reason, it’s in your best interest to seek professional help if you’re thinking of quitting this opioid pain medication.

If you’re looking for a straightforward approach to manage Tapentadol withdrawal symptoms, then you can opt for opioid detox options.

During a Tapentadol detox program, you may be prescribed medications such as methadone or buprenorphine to help reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings. These medicines work by binding to the same opioid receptors in the brain as Tapentadol. Still, they do so in a less addictive manner, allowing the patient to wean off the opioid dependence gradually.

Apart from medication-assisted treatment, Tapentadol detox programs may also incorporate other therapies such as –

• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
• Individual and group counseling
• Holistic approaches like yoga, meditation, and nutritional support.

By taking a varied approach, patients can increase their chances of long-term recovery.

If you’re looking to learn more about opioid withdrawal, Healthline offers a comprehensive guide that can provide detailed information on this important subject.

Conclusion

If you’re struggling with Tapentadol withdrawal, it’s crucial to speak to a medical provider. Going through Tapentadol withdrawal can be tough, but with the proper support from your doctor, you can tackle this.