🩺 Aspadol ER 200 mg (Tapentadol Extended-Release)
Generic Name: Tapentadol Hydrochloride
Brand Name: Aspadol ER 200
Manufacturer: HAB Pharmaceuticals
Form: Extended-Release Oral Tablet
Therapeutic Class: Centrally Acting Opioid Analgesic
Controlled Substance Schedule: Schedule II (High potential for abuse)
✅ Indications
Aspadol ER 200 mg is indicated for the management of severe chronic pain in adults that requires long-term, around-the-clock opioid treatment and cannot be managed with alternative therapies.
Common use cases include:
- Chronic musculoskeletal pain (e.g., osteoarthritis, lower back pain)
- Neuropathic pain
- Pain associated with cancer or long-standing injury
⚙️ Mechanism of Action
Tapentadol works through a dual mechanism of action:
- μ-Opioid Receptor Agonist: Reduces pain perception by acting on opioid receptors in the brain.
- Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitor (NRI): Enhances the brain’s pain inhibitory pathway by increasing norepinephrine availability.
This combination provides strong, sustained analgesia with a lower incidence of gastrointestinal side effects compared to traditional opioids.
💊 Dosage & Administration
- Initial Dose (opioid-naïve patients): 50 mg every 12 hours
- Titration: Gradually increase dose based on patient response and tolerance
- Maximum Daily Dose: 500 mg/day
- Administration:
- Take whole with water (do not chew, crush, or split)
- Can be taken with or without food
Always follow the dosage instructions provided by your healthcare provider.
⚠️ Warnings & Precautions
- Addiction, Abuse, and Misuse: Risk increases with prolonged use—strictly follow prescription guidance
- Respiratory Depression: Serious, potentially fatal; monitor closely, especially in the elderly
- CNS Depressants: Avoid alcohol or other sedatives while taking this medication
- Pregnancy/Breastfeeding: Not recommended; may cause neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome
- Driving/Machinery Use: May impair mental/physical ability—use caution
❌ Potential Side Effects
Common Side Effects:
- Drowsiness or sedation
- Nausea or vomiting
- Constipation
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Headache
Serious Side Effects (seek immediate medical help):
- Respiratory depression
- Seizures
- Signs of serotonin syndrome (confusion, hallucinations, rapid heartbeat)
- Severe allergic reactions (rash, swelling, difficulty breathing)
🔁 Missed Dose & Overdose
- Missed Dose: Take as soon as remembered unless it’s close to the next dose. Do not double the dose.
- Overdose: Can cause life-threatening respiratory depression. Call emergency services immediately if overdose is suspected.
🔄 Therapeutic Alternatives
Other Tapentadol ER 200 mg brands available in India include:
- Tydol ER 200 – Sun Pharma
- Tapenta ER 200 – Zuventus
- Vorth TP ER 200 – Integrace
- Transdol ER 200 – Lupin
Consult your healthcare provider before switching brands or dosage forms.
📌 Storage & Handling
- Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from moisture and direct sunlight
- Keep out of reach of children
- Dispose of unused medication properly to prevent misuse
📝 Key Takeaway
Aspadol ER 200 mg is a potent, extended-release analgesic intended for long-term pain relief. Due to its high potency and potential for dependence, it should be used strictly under medical supervision.