Tapentadol MOR-NRI Mechanism — FRCA Final MCQ
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Correct answer: E — Mu agonist and noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor (MOR-NRI)
Tapentadol: dual MOR-NRI mechanism. Mu-opioid agonism + noradrenaline reuptake inhibition → analgesia via both opioid and descending inhibitory pathways. Fewer GI side effects than pure mu-agonists. Distinct from tramadol (also inhibits serotonin, requires CYP2D6).
Reference: BNF – 2025 – Tapentadol; FPM – 2023