Tapentadol is a painkiller used to treat moderate to severe pain.
Take Tapentadol exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not take more or less than instructed by your doctor.
You may take this medicine with or without food. Try to take it at the same time each day.
Tapentadol is available as regular- or modified-release tablets. Tablets must be swallowed whole with a glass of water. Do not cut, chew or crush the tablets.
Do not stop taking Tapentadol unless instructed otherwise, as stopping it suddenly could worsen your condition.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.
Do not double dose under any circumstances.
Alert your doctor if you have any lung disease e.g. asthma, breathing problems or a condition called “paralytic ileus” wherein the bowel does not work properly, as this medicine may not be suitable for you.
Do not take Tapentadol if you are taking or have taken a type of medicine known as monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) within the last 2 weeks. Some examples include phenelzine, selegiline, moclobemide and tranylcypromine.
Inform your doctor if you have any of the following:
- liver disease
- kidney disease
- thyroid disease
- bowel disease
- history of drug abuse
- previous head injury or brain tumour
- epilepsy (seizures or fits)
- pancreatic disease
- addiction or dependence issues with medicines and/or alcohol
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Tapentadol may cause drowsiness and dizziness. It may also cause you to suddenly fall asleep during your daily activities such as eating and watching television. You may not feel drowsy before you fall asleep. If affected, do not drive or take part in any activity in which you need to be alert.
Other side effects include any of the following: decreased appetite, tiredness, nausea, vomiting, headache and constipation.
Some side effects may need immediate medical help. Alert your doctor quickly if you experience difficulty breathing, extreme drowsiness, changes in your heartbeat and severe dizziness or confusion.
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Do not take Tapentadol if you are taking or have taken a type of medicine known as monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) within the last 2 weeks. Some examples include phenelzine, selegiline, moclobemide and tranylcypromine.
Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are currently taking any of the following these medicines:
- anti-allergy medicines e.g. antihistamines
- medicines for epilepsy e.g. phenobarbital
- medicines to treat depression e.g. clomipramine
- other medicines for pain e.g. tramadol, buspirone
- antibiotic e.g. rifampicin
This list does not include all medicines that may interact with Tapentadol.
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicine, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Avoid alcohol and St John's wort.
Store regular tablets in a cool, dry place.
Store modified-release tablets at 15-30°C.
Keep Tapentadol away from the reach of children.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.
Sign Out
