What are the Side Effects of Tapentadol Tablets?

Tapentadol (commonly sold under the brand name Nucynta) is a prescription opioid pain reliever used for moderate to severe pain. While it is effective, it may cause side effects to the patients, some common and some rare.
Understanding these reactions can help you use Tapentadol safely and know when to seek medical attention.

Common Side Effects of Tapentadol Tablets

These side effects are more frequently reported and often improve as your body adjusts:

• Constipation
• Fatigue or weakness
• Drowsiness or sluggishness
• Muscle pain or stiffness
• Heartburn or indigestion
• Stomach discomfort
• Body aches
• Cough
• Pain or burning during urination
• Fever or headache
• Back pain
• Muscle spasms
• Loss of voice

Less Common or Rare Side Effects

These are less common but may require medical advice:

• Anxiety
• Confusion
• Chest tightness
• Irregular heartbeat
• Feeling drunk or woozy
• Restlessness or irritability
• Pale skin or lips
• Skin rash, hives, or itching
• Seizures
• Tremors
• Swelling of the face, eyelids, lips, hands, or feet
• Trouble swallowing or speaking
• Joint pain or swelling
• Slurred speech
• Unsteadiness when walking

Side Effects With Unknown Frequency

Reported but not common enough to determine:

• Agitation
• Mood or behavior changes
• Darkened skin
• Diarrhea
• Dizziness
• Fainting
• Severe swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or genitals
• Loss of appetite
• Depression
• Nausea or vomiting
• Shivering or sweating
• Overactive reflexes
• Poor coordination
• Thoughts of self-harm
• Twitching
• Worsening pain

Symptoms of Tapentadol Overdose (Requires Immediate Medical Attention)

• Call emergency services if you notice:
• Loss of consciousness
• Shallow or irregular breathing
• Cold, clammy skin
• Severe drowsiness
• Chest pain or discomfort
• Blue lips or fingertips
• Extreme dizziness or fainting
• Coughing or choking
• Unresponsiveness
• Swelling in the legs
• Rapid or slowed heartbeat

There may be some side effects that usually don’t need medical attention. These side effects might disappear as you continue taking the medicine and your body gets used to it.

How to Manage the Side Effects of Tapentadol?

These tips may help reduce discomfort while taking Tapentadol:

Prevent nausea

• Take with a small meal or snack
• Suck on mint candies
• Drink ginger tea
• Stay hydrated

Prevent dizziness

• Stand up slowly
• Avoid driving until you know how Tapentadol affects you

Prevent constipation

• Drink plenty of water
• Increase fiber (fruits, vegetables, whole grains)
• Stay physically active

Avoid dangerous interactions

Never combine Tapentadol with:

• Alcohol
• Benzodiazepines (e.g., Xanax, Valium)
• Other opioids
• Barbiturates
• Central nervous system depressants

These combinations can cause respiratory depression, coma, or death.

Stay under medical supervision

• Schedule regular check-ups
• Do not adjust dosage without your doctor’s approval
• Report withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety, insomnia, nausea, or muscle cramps

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How can I reduce the side effects of Tapentadol?

Follow your doctor’s dosage strictly, stay hydrated, avoid alcohol, eat balanced meals, and incorporate light exercise to support digestion and energy levels.

Q: Can I take other medicines to manage side effects from Tapentadol?

Never add other medicines without medical guidance. Some combinations can be dangerous or life-threatening.