Drug reference
tapentadol
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Drug class
Musculoskeletal (Opioids)
Mechanism of action
Mu-opioid agonist; inhibits ascending pain pathways, thus altering response to pain; produces analgesia, respiratory depression, and sedation; also inhibits reuptake of norepinephrine, which also affects ascending pain pathways
Common side effects
- Pruritus
- Constipation
- Dizziness
- Vomiting
- Somnolence
- Nausea
- Xerostomia
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity (eg, anaphylaxis, angioedema) Significant respiratory depression Acute or severe asthma Hypercarbia in unmonitored setting or in absence of resuscitative equipment Gastrointestinal obstruction, including suspected paralytic ileus Coadministration with monoamine oxida…
Related conditions
Frequently asked questions
What drug class is tapentadol?
tapentadol belongs to: Musculoskeletal.
How does tapentadol work?
Mu-opioid agonist; inhibits ascending pain pathways, thus altering response to pain; produces analgesia, respiratory depression, and sedation; also inhibits reuptake of norepinephrine, which also affects ascending pain pathways
What are the common side effects of tapentadol?
Pruritus, Constipation, Dizziness, Vomiting, Somnolence, Nausea, Xerostomia
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