Diabetic neuropathy causes excruciating pain in feet and leg. Diabetic pain is characterized as neuropathic pain.
Opioid was not advised for diabetic neuropathy pain in the past. Nucynta ER (Tapentadol) is the first opioid approved by FDA for diabetic pain. Nucenta ER is an extended release opioid. Nucynta was approved as opioid pain medication for moderate pain in 2008. Complications and side effects observed in trial are similar to other opioids.
Treatment has to be prescribed by physician and close supervision is necessary. Life threatening risk are similar to other opioids in patients with chronic obstructive and restrictive lung diseases. Sleep apnea and respiratory failure may occur when prescribed with other sedatives or pain medications. Opioid dependence and addiction potential are less or same as in other opioids.
Diabetic patients may have complications such as nephropathy, cardiomyopathy and autonomic neuropathy and Nucenta may be contraindicated. Accidental over dosage may cause death of the patient.
