Tapentadol

What Is Tapentadol?

Tapentadol is one of the most potent opioid pain medications that offers fast and effective relief for moderate to severe pain. It binds to opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord to lower body pain.

The FDA approved its use in 2008, indicating its high safety and effectiveness. However, due to its Schedule II classification and potential for abuse, it is crucial to use Tapentadol strictly under medical supervision.

The Origin Of The Medication

Tapentadol was developed in the late 1980s by a team led by Helmut Buschmann at the German pharmaceutical company Grünenthal. Their goal was to create a more effective pain medication than tramadol. 

In 2003, Tapentadol entered the US market under the brand name Nucynta, becoming the first oral centrally-acting analgesic in 25 years.

Nucynta ER, an extended-release formulation, was introduced in the US in 2011 and received FDA approval in 2012 for diabetic neuropathy.

Chemical Composition

Tapentadol hydrochloride is the active compound that provides the primary pain-relief action.

Inactive compounds such as Povidone, Colloidal silicon dioxide, Polyvinylpyrrolidone, Magnesium stearate, Croscarmellose sodium, and Microcrystalline cellulose are essential for the medicine to function correctly. 

Tapentadol Brand Name

Tapentadol is marketed under numerous brands, including Aspadol, Nucynta, Palexia, Tapaday, Noosanta, Tap, and Topcynta. While the active ingredient remains the same, these brands may differ in price, availability, and formulations.

Types Of Tapentadol Formulations

Tapentadol is available in immediate-release (IR) and extended-release (ER) formulations.

Tapentadol Uses

Tapentadol is prescribed to treat moderate to severe acute pain caused by arthritis, injury, fibromyalgia, and post-operative pain. These are short-term pain that lasts from a few days to a few weeks. 

The extended-release tablets are prescribed for chronic pain associated with diabetic neuropathy, a condition that is caused by nerve damage from diabetes. It is also prescribed to treat chronic lower back pain. Its dual mechanism of action makes Tapentadol a well-tolerated and effective choice for managing chronic pain. 

Benefits of Using Tapentadol

The four key benefits of using Tapentadol pain medication include- 

• Tapentadol’s dual mechanism of action sets it apart by offering both fast and long-lasting relief. It also ensures sustained effectiveness, making Tapentadol an exceptional choice for managing chronic pain. 

• Users report significant pain relief and improved quality of life.

• It provides around-the-clock relief for chronic pain.

• It has a lower risk of dependency compared to other traditional opioids.

Tapentadol Dosage Guidelines 

Tapentadol IR is available in 50 mg, 75mg, and 100mg dosages, while the Extended-Release tablets are available in 50 mg, 100 mg, 150 mg, 200 mg, and 250 mg dosages.

Dosage Recommendation For Beginners-

It is recommended that beginners start with a lower dose of the medication, such as Topcynta 50 mg or Topcynta 100 mg, both formulations. 

Severe Pain-

In severe cases, the dosage can be gradually increased to 100 mg for immediate-release formulations, whereas the extended-release formulations should be taken up to 200 mg to 250 mg. 

Maximum Daily Dosages

• The maximum dose on the first day of treatment is 700 mg per day.

• The maximum dose on the subsequent days is 600 mg per day.

• The maximum dose for extended-release tablets is 500 mg per day.

Missed Doses 

If you miss a dose of Tapentadol, take it as soon as you remember. If it is time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with the regular dosing schedule. 

Comparison Between Dosage Strengths

The table below provides guidance on the appropriate Tapentadol dosage options, indicating the dosage gap, medical condition, and patient criteria for each dosage available at our pharmacy.

Administration Guidelines

• Take the second dose one hour after the first dose on the first day of the treatment. 

• Tapentadol IR tablets can be taken every 4 to 6 hours, and the ER tablets should be taken at a dosage interval of 12 hours. 

• Swallow tablets whole with water; do not break or crush.

• It can be taken before or after a meal. 

Tapentadol Brands Available At Onlinepillswww

The Tapentadol brands and their dosage strengths available on the Online Pills Store are listed below. 

Aspadol-

The Aspadol 100 mg is manufactured by Signature Pharmaceuticals, one of the leading manufacturing companies in India. Also known as the orange pain pill due to its distinctive orange color, it is one of the most effective Tapentadol brands. The Aspadol 100 mg is priced at $1.52 per pill at Onlinepillswww. 

Extended-release tablets, such as Aspadol ER 200 mg, are also available at Onlinepillswww pharmacy and are priced at $ 1.52 per pill.

Tapaday- 

The Tapaday brand drug is available in two dosage strengths- 100 mg and 200 mg. It is marketed by Kachhela Medex Private Limited. Tapaday 100 mg is priced at $1.51 per pill and can be taken 3 to 4 times a day. On the other hand, it is also available as extended-release formula. The Tapaday 200mg is retailed at $1.16 per pill and must be taken twice daily with a gap of 12 hours between doses. 

Topcynta- 

Topcynta is manufactured by Healing Pharma and is one of the most affordable brand drugs of Tapentadol. It is priced at $1.16 per pill.

Topcynta is available in two dosage strengths: 50 mg and 100 mg. The Topcynta 50 mg dose is commonly prescribed for beginners.  

Tap- 

Tap 100 mg tablets are manufactured by Healing Pharma and are priced at $ 1.03. It can be taken two to three times daily with a gap of 4 to 6 hours between doses. 

Noosanta-

Noosanta, the brand drug Tapentadol, is marketed by Kachhela Medex Private Limited. The dosage strength available at Onlinepillswww is 100 mg, a standard medication dose that can be taken every 4 to 6 hours. The cost of the Noosanta 100 mg tablet is $ 1.03. 

Tapentadol Side Effects

The six common side effects of Tapentadol include-

• Nausea

• Dry mouth

• Vomiting

• Constipation

• Dizziness

• Drowsiness. 

Seven severe side effects of Tapentadol (seek medical attention)- 

• Seizure

• Hallucinations

• Agitations

• Loss Of Coordination

• Fever

• Rash

• Difficulty breathing or swallowing

Long-Term Side Effects Of Tapentadol

Tapentadol withdrawal symptoms are reported from its long-term use. Seven withdrawal symptoms include- 

• Diarrhea

• Tremors

• Insomnia

• Sweating

• Nausea

• Anxiety

• Piloerection, a condition where the hair stands on end.

Health Risks Of Tapentadol Overdose

Seven symptoms of Tapentadol Overdose include-

• Clammy skin

• Blurred vision

• Slowed breathing

• Extreme drowsiness

• Muscle weakness

• Low blood pressure

• Cardiac arrest

Precautions And Warnings 

• Driving and Machinery– Tapentadol can cause dizziness and drowsiness, and thus, it is not recommended to drive or operate heavy machinery.
• Regular Monitoring– The patient should be regularly monitored within the first 24 to 72 hours of the treatment.
• Alcohol– Taking Tapentadol with alcohol can cause difficulty concentrating, drowsiness, and dizziness.
• Breastfeeding– Tapentadol can pass into the breast milk and can affect the baby. It is advisable to avoid taking the Tapentadol dose while breastfeeding. If prescribed, avoid breastfeeding for 3 to 4 hours after taking the dose. 
• Pregnancy– Use Tapentadol during pregnancy only if prescribed by a doctor, as it can increase the risk of birth defects.
• Medical History–  Inform your doctor if you have a history of addiction, mood disorders, breathing problems ( asthma or sleep apnea), kidney or liver disorders.
• Older Adults– Not advisable for people above 65 years due to increased health risks.

Tapentadol Interactions

Tapentadol can interact with other medicines and supplements to lower the effectiveness of the medicine and increase the risk of side effects. 

Note– Apart from the medications listed above, it is advisable to consult your doctor before taking any medication with Tapentadol.