Other Opioid Analgesics

These medications are used for the treatment of pain.  Both medications are weak opioid mu agonists.  Tramadol also has serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor properties. Tapentadol has more isolated norepinephrine reuptake inhibition. Both medications can precipitate serotonin syndrome.

Class Drugs

• Tapentadol

• Tramadol

Class Mechanism of Action

• See individual drug

Class Application

• Analgesia

Class Adverse Effects

• See individual drugs

Drug Table

Drug Name	Application	Comments	Image
Tapentadol	Analgesia	Mechanism; -Central Mu agonist; -Norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor; Adverse Effects; ; -Potential for serotonin syndrome; -Avoid in those who have taken MAOi in within 14 days	"Tap" "Pentagon"
Tramadol	Analgesia	Mechanism; -Central Mu agonist; -Active metabolites that bind Mu receptor even stronger; -Norepinephrine/ serotonin reuptake inhibitor; Adverse Effects; -Less respiratory depression than traditional opioids; -Common cause of altered mental status in elderly; -Anaphylactoid reactions; -Serotonin syndrome possible, especially in overdose situations in conjunction with SSRIs, tricyclics, and MAOis	"Tram" "Doll"