HIGHLIGHTS
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Chronic pain as a result of osteoarthritis is highly present in the population, is caused by multiple factors and must be comprehended and treated safely.
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Tapentadol ER apparently is effective to manage chronic pain associated to osteoarthritis and seems to be safe in different aged individuals. Each patient must be examined carefully and the dosage adjusted according to the patient’s perception of pain. In the present case reports, tapentadol ER (100mg every 12 hours) was maintained for the three patients due to the beneficial response of pain control, no important adverse effects and recovery of daily activities.
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:
Osteoarthritis affects many individuals worldwide and is caused by multiple factors that lead to joint wear and tear, inflammation and, consequently, chronic pain that is difficult to treat. It is predominant in seniors, but not restricted to older age groups. Pain reduction is prioritized when facing crises, so that rehabilitation work and postural corrections can be applied later. The present study aimed to evaluate the analgesic potential of tapentadol extended-release (ER) in three patients with osteoarthritis who had undergone numerous previous treatments and had a history of moderate to severe chronic pain.
CASE REPORTS:
Three women, aged 49, 75 and 86 years old, diagnosed with osteoarthritis, with complaints of severe pain and who had undergone numerous therapies including drug use, without significant pain control were included in the study. The use of tapentadol ER was recommended and adjusted to each patient according to the intensity of pain. All of them responded satisfactorily and returned to their daily activities. One of them presented nausea after two days of tapentadol use, which was controlled with an antiemetic drug only during the two days of nausea
CONCLUSION:
Tapentadol ER was effective in controlling pain from osteoarthritis in the three cases evaluated, without serious adverse effects. The period and dosage of tapentadol ER must be in accordance with the clinical evolution of each patient.
Keywords
Analgesia; Case reports; Chronic pain; Osteoarthritis; Tapentadol