Tapentadol
General Information
Tapentadol is indicated to help relieve on-going severe pain. This may also be used to help relieve nerve pain or called peripheral neuropathy in people with diabetes. Peripheral neuropathy is about the conditions that happen when nerves that carry messages to and from the brain. Then it passes to the spinal cord from and to other parts of the body that are diseased.
How does Tapentadol work?
Tapentadol imitates the action of our natural endorphins. It is by combining with the same opioid receptors in the spinal cord and brain. This blocks the transmission of pain signals sent by the nerves to the brain. This means that even though the cause of the pain may remain, less pain is actually felt.
Tapentadol also improves the activity of a neurotransmitter called noradrenaline in the brain. Neurotransmitters are chemical compounds that act as messengers between the nerve cells. Enhancing the effect of noradrenaline also helps relieve pain.
Why use Tapentadol?
Tapentadol is an opioid or narcotic pain reliever. This acts on certain centers in the brain to give you pain relief. It relieves pain by mimicking the action of naturally occurring pain-reducing chemicals called endorphins. These are found in the brain and spinal cord. That it reduces pain by combining with opioid receptors.
This is a prescription approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Tapentadol is supplied as an extended-release tablet. Each tablet is available in the strengths of 50 mg, 100 mg, 150 mg, 200 mg, and 250 mg.
How to use Tapentadol?
The recommended dosage is based on your medical condition, age, and response. This is to be taken exactly as it is prescribed. For the best benefit, take it regularly and do not take more or less than it is given by your doctor.
Tapentadol is usually taken twice a day about 12 hours apart. You may take each dose with or without food. Take this medication with enough water to make sure that you completely swallow the tablet. Remember to take it at the same time each day.
What are the side effects of Tapentadol?
- Vomiting
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Constipation
- Dry mouth
- Drowsiness
- Increased sweating
- Itching
- Sleepiness
- Headache
- Anxiety
- Trouble sleeping
- Weakness
- Decreased appetite
- Blurred vision
Warnings and Precautions
- Let your doctor know if you are allergic to it before using. Tell also to your doctor if you have a medical history especially of depression, kidney or liver disease.
- This may make you dizzy or drowsy. Do not use any machinery or do anything that needs alertness.
- This should only be used when needed for pregnant women. If you are breastfeeding women, consult your doctor first.
- Do not share this or any of your medications with others even they have the same symptoms as yours.
