Policing Pain: The Increasing Seizures of Tapentadol
What is Tapentadol and why is it an opioid of concern?
Tapentadol is a centrally acting opioid analgesic that is used to treat moderate to severe pain. It works by binding to the mu-opioid receptor and inhibiting the reuptake of norepinephrine. This results in decreased perception of pain and improved pain management.
Tapentadol is available in immediate-release and extended-release formulations. The immediate-release tablets are typically used for the treatment of acute pain, such as post-operative pain. The extended-release tablets are used for the management of chronic pain, such as neuropathic pain associated with diabetic peripheral neuropathy.
Tapentadol has been found to be effective in treating a range of pain conditions, such as musculoskeletal pain, neuropathic pain, and cancer pain. It has also been shown to have fewer gastrointestinal side effects compared to other opioids, such as morphine and oxycodone.
However, tapentadol may cause side effects such as nausea, dizziness, and constipation. It can also cause respiratory depression, so it should be used with caution in patients with respiratory disorders. Tapentadol has the potential for misuse and can lead to addiction.
