Tapentadol Exposures and Poisonings : An Overview

Creator: Dr. Osheen Kour
Published: 2023-05-15T17:33:07

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Tapentadol is an opioid analgesic that can cause severe poisoning due to accidental or intentional overdose. Read the article to know more about it.

Written by

Dr. Osheen Kour

Medically reviewed by

Dr. Salah Saad Hassan Shoman

May 15, 2023

July 17, 2023

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Contents

What Are the Side Effects Caused by Tapentadol?
What Are the Symptoms of Tapentadol Poisoning or Overdose?
What Are the Preventive Measures Taken Before Consuming Tapentadol?
What Is the Treatment for Tapentadol Poisoning?
What Are the Contraindication for Tapentadol?

Introduction

Tapentadol is an opioid analgesic used to treat moderate to severe pain. The drug is a central nervous system depressant and can cause severe toxicity due to prolonged use. As a result, Tapentadol can cause severe breathing issues and other health problems in a person leading to life-threatening situations. In addition, the drug can produce various gastrointestinal, neurological, renal, and hepatic symptoms, making a person addicted or drug dependent. Therefore, a person should consume the medication only after the doctor's advice and in the prescribed dose quantity. The accidental or intentional abuse of Tapentadol causes poisoning, which may lead to the death of a person.

What Are the Side Effects Caused by Tapentadol?

The side effects caused by Tapentadol are as follows:

Common Side Effects

Headache.
Nausea.
Vomiting.
Drowsiness.
Anxiety.
Dry mouth.
Stomach pain.
Heartburn.
Tiredness.
Irritability.
Sleeping difficulties.
Abnormal dreams.
Dizziness.

Serious Side Effects

Rash.
Seizures.
Itching.
Chest pain.
Hives.
Loss of appetite.
Irregular menstruation.
Erectile dysfunction.
Reduced sexual desires.
Hallucinations.
Agitation.
Muscle twitching and stiffness.
Diarrhea.
Loss of coordination.
Fever.
Confusion.
Sweating.
Hoarseness.
Difficulty in breathing.
Difficulty in swallowing.
Rapid heartbeat.
Loss of consciousness.
Swelling in throat, tongue, face, lips, and eyes.

What Are the Symptoms of Tapentadol Poisoning or Overdose?

The symptoms caused by Tapentadol overdose include:

Muscle weakness.
Sleepiness.
Breathing difficulties.
Dark circles around the eyes.
Clammy and cold skin.
Slowed heartbeat.
Shallow and slow breathing.
Unconsciousness.

What Are the Medical Uses of Tapentadol?

Tapentadol is used for the following conditions. The drug is used to treat acute or severe injuries and is also used for chronic musculoskeletal pain. The drug can also be used to treat pain caused by diabetic neuropathy. Extended-release tablets of Tapentadol are used to treat pain in people who need medication for pain relief around the clock. The drug is an opioid analgesic that can change the perception of pain in the brain and how the central nervous system responds to pain.

What Are the Preventive Measures Taken Before Consuming Tapentadol?

The preventive measures to be taken before consuming Tapentadol are as follows:

A person should inform the doctor about allergic reactions to Tapentadol or other medication. The doctor should also know about any specific ingredient in the drug the person is allergic to for proper knowledge of the case and better diagnosis and treatment. The doctor should also know about any medical condition a person is suffering from, such as liver or kidney disease, head injury or tumor, respiratory disorders like asthma, mental disorders, gastrointestinal problems like constipation or diarrhea, and any history of substance abuse or drug overdose.
A person should also give all the details about herbal medication, prescription or non-prescription drugs, and nutritional supplements that they are taking. This helps the doctor decide the drug dose and if any changes are required. The doctor can also monitor the side effects clearly. The drug can reduce fertility both in women and men. Therefore, the drug should be taken only after consulting the healthcare provider.
A person taking Tapentadol should avoid driving vehicles and heavy machinery as it can be dangerous because the drug causes drowsiness, fainting, dizziness, and lightheadedness. The drug can cause constipation; therefore, discuss dietary changes and other medication for treating bowel disorders with the doctor.
A person should also inform the doctor if they are taking Tapentadol for dental surgeries. The drug should be cautiously given to pregnant women as it can cause harm to the fetus. The doctor gives Tapentadol to treat a specific health condition of the person. Therefore, the drug should not be given to someone else or shared without consulting a doctor.

What Is the Treatment for Tapentadol Poisoning?

The treatment options for Tapentadol poisoning include:

Treatment for Tapentadol mainly depends upon the severity of the condition and overdose. Initial supportive treatment is given to a person by securing the airway and breathing. Severe respiratory depression is managed with endotracheal intubation or mechanical ventilation, depending upon the case. This helps to prevent the accumulation of carbon dioxide in the body. Respiratory depression and decreased heart rate are often treated with an antidote such as Naloxone, an opioid antagonist.
The drug absorption rate is also reduced by giving activated charcoal therapy to a person to clean the stomach. Continuous vitals monitoring is done to stabilize blood pressure, heart rate, and breathing rate. Rehabilitation therapy and counseling of a person are also done during the recovery phase from severe Tapentadol overdose or substance abuse to get rid of the drug dependency and withdrawal symptoms. Regular follow-ups with the doctor are scheduled to monitor the improvement of a person, especially in drug abuse cases.

What Are the Contraindication for Tapentadol?

Tapentadol is contraindicated in the following conditions:

Tapentadol is usually contraindicated in a person with epilepsy and seizures.
The drug is also not advised in people having a head injury or brain tumor, as Tapentadol can increase intracranial pressure in such conditions.
People with asthma can have respiratory distress after taking Tapentadol. Therefore it is contraindicated in such cases.
The drug is also contraindicated in people with acute or chronic pancreatitis, as the medicine can cause spasms in the sphincter of Oddi.
Tapentadol should be given cautiously to people with acute liver diseases as the drug cannot get removed from the body rapidly. Moreover, the drug is contraindicated in severe liver and kidney diseased conditions.
The drug is also not given if a person has urination problems.
Tapentadol is not given to pregnant women as it can affect the baby and make them drug dependent.
The drug is contraindicated in people having problems with the thyroid gland, adrenal gland, and gallbladder.

Conclusion

Tapentadol exposure or poisoning can cause drug dependency and addiction if not taken in the prescribed dose quantity, which can be life-threatening for a person. In addition, the drug can interact with several medications and cause adverse effects in the body, thus compromising a person's health. Therefore, the drug should not be consumed in higher doses and for a prolonged period intentionally without a doctor’s advice. A person showing symptoms of Tapentadol poisoning and overdose should be immediately taken to the nearest healthcare center for medical intervention as it can lead to fatal consequences.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are Tapentadol and Tramadol Equally Potent?

Tapentadol and Tramadol differ in potency due to their distinct mechanisms of action. Tapentadol is generally considered to be more potent than Tramadol. While both are opioid pain medications, Tapentadol binds to the mu-opioid receptor. Also, it inhibits norepinephrine reuptake, providing more robust pain relief compared to Tramadol, which primarily acts by inhibiting serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake.

2. What Classification of Narcotics Is Tapentadol?

Tapentadol is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance, denoting its higher potential for abuse and addiction. It is recognized as an opioid analgesic, and its classification aligns it with other potent narcotics due to its significant pain-relieving properties. This classification places strict regulations on prescription, dispensing, and use to minimize potential abuse and diversion.

3. Can Tramadol Induce Visual Hallucinations?

Tramadol has been reported in some cases to induce visual hallucinations. This phenomenon might occur due to its interaction with brain chemistry, particularly its influence on serotonin levels. Tramadol, acting as an opioid and also affecting serotonin reuptake, can lead to alterations in brain function, potentially resulting in sensory disturbances like visual hallucinations.

4. What Are the Potential Side Effects of Excessive Tapentadol Consumption?

Excessive consumption of Tapentadol can lead to several potential side effects, ranging from mild to severe. Some common side effects of taking too much Tapentadol include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, drowsiness, constipation, and respiratory depression. In more severe cases, an overdose of Tapentadol can result in respiratory distress, unconsciousness, and even fatalities. It is crucial to adhere strictly to prescribed dosages and seek immediate medical attention if there are concerns about Tapentadol overdose or experiencing adverse effects.

5. What Causes Hallucinations with Tramadol Use?

Tramadol's unique mechanism involves binding to opioid receptors while also affecting serotonin levels in the brain. The interplay between these actions can alter neural pathways, potentially causing sensory distortions like hallucinations. If experiencing hallucinations or other concerning effects, consulting a healthcare professional is essential.

6. What Are the Potential Long-Term Consequences of Tapentadol Use?

The long-term effects of Tapentadol use can encompass both benefits and risks. Prolonged use may lead to the development of tolerance, dependence, and potential addiction, typical of opioid medications. Additionally, chronic use could result in side effects such as constipation, dizziness, or respiratory problems. Monitoring and managing long-term Tapentadol use are crucial to mitigate these risks and ensure its continued effectiveness for pain management, ideally under the guidance and supervision of a healthcare professional.

7. Does Tapentadol Elevate Blood Pressure?

Tapentadol has the potential to cause a slight increase in blood pressure, especially at higher doses. This effect is associated with its mechanism of action, which involves the opioid receptors and its impact on the sympathetic nervous system. While the blood pressure elevation might be modest, individuals with pre-existing hypertension or other cardiovascular conditions should be monitored carefully when using Tapentadol.

8. Is Tapentadol Detrimental to Heart Health?

The impact of Tapentadol on heart health is a subject of medical scrutiny. While it is not explicitly classified as harmful to the heart, certain precautions are essential. Tapentadol, like other opioids, can affect the cardiovascular system, potentially leading to changes in heart rate and blood pressure. Individuals with pre-existing heart conditions should be cautious when using Tapentadol, and regular monitoring under the guidance of a healthcare professional is recommended to ensure the safety and appropriate management of any potential cardiovascular effects.

9. Is Tapentadol Beneficial for Improving Sleep?

Tapentadol is primarily used to manage moderate to severe pain rather than specifically for sleep improvement. However, its pain-relieving properties might indirectly contribute to better sleep quality for individuals experiencing pain-related sleep disturbances. Nevertheless, its effects on sleep may vary among individuals, and using Tapentadol solely for improving sleep is not its intended or primary purpose.

10. Is Tapentadol Classified as Serotonergic?

Yes, Tapentadol is classified as a serotonergic medication due to its interaction with the serotonin system in the brain. It not only works as an opioid but also inhibits the reuptake of norepinephrine and serotonin. This dual action on multiple neurotransmitter systems sets it apart from other opioids, highlighting its serotonergic properties. However, the extent of its serotonergic effects might differ from drugs specifically designed to target serotonin receptors or reuptake primarily.

11. Does Tapentadol Impede Serotonin Reuptake?

Yes, Tapentadol does inhibit the reuptake of serotonin, along with norepinephrine. Its mechanism involves not only opioid receptor binding but also the modulation of neurotransmitters, specifically by increasing the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain. This dual action on these neurotransmitters distinguishes Tapentadol from traditional opioids and contributes to its unique pain-relieving properties.

12. Can Tramadol Trigger Serotonin Syndrome?

Tramadol has the potential to cause serotonin syndrome, especially when taken in combination with other medications that also increase serotonin levels. As Tramadol affects serotonin reuptake, combining it with other drugs like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) can elevate serotonin to dangerous levels, leading to serotonin syndrome. Symptoms of this condition include changes in mental status, agitation, sweating, and muscle twitching, and severe cases, it can be life-threatening.

13. Is It Safe to Use Tapentadol?

The safety of Tapentadol usage depends on various factors, including individual health conditions, dosage, and adherence to prescribed guidelines. Generally, when used as directed and under medical supervision, Tapentadol can be safe and effective for managing moderate to severe pain. Consulting with a healthcare professional for proper guidance and monitoring during its use is crucial to ensure safety and efficacy.

14. Does Tapentadol Influence Mood?

Tapentadol might influence mood due to its effects on neurotransmitters, particularly serotonin and norepinephrine, which play a role in regulating mood. As an opioid analgesic with additional reuptake inhibition of these neurotransmitters, it can potentially affect mood states. Monitoring mood changes and discussing them with a healthcare provider is advisable for proper management and understanding of such effects.

15. Can Tapentadol Aid in Improving Sleep Quality?

Tapentadol primarily serves as a pain-relieving medication rather than a sleep aid. While alleviating pain could indirectly improve sleep quality for those whose pain affects their sleep, Tapentadol is not specifically designed or approved for addressing sleep disorders. Any improvements in sleep may be a secondary outcome of pain relief. Consulting a healthcare professional for sleep-related concerns is recommended to explore appropriate treatments tailored specifically for sleep disturbances rather than relying solely on tapentadol for sleep improvement.

Sources

Dr. Salah Saad Hassan Shoman

Internal Medicine

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