Can Nucynta Cause Memory Impairment?

Posted on Wed, 4 Nov 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Wed, 4 Nov 2015 Answered on

Wed, 25 Nov 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : I have been on nucynta 100 for about six months. It is the regular kind, not extended relief. My doctor replaced the hydrocodone I was taking with nucynta. I was on hydrocodone 350/10 for a long time, but I wanted to try something else. I seem to be losing my short term memory. As an example, I might be going into the kitchen to get something, and then when I get there I can't remember why I'm there. Eventually if I concentrate hard I will think of why I was in there, but this shouldn't be. Any suggestions on your part?
I never got an answer!

Answered by Dr. Dr. Rovena (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
detailed below.

Detailed Answer:
Hello.

Welcome to Healthcare Magic.

I read carefully your query .

Memory impairment is a known side effect of Tapentadol (Nucynta).So episodes with short memory loss can happen when taking Nucynta.It is a rare side effect but can happen.People react different to the same drug and experience different side effects.Some side effects can be tolerated from the patient if the benefit of taking the medication is greater.
So if you are noticing frequent episodes of memory loss and this is affecting your daily functioning ,you should discuss this with your treating doctor.He will decide if it is necessary to discontinue the drug and try something else to manage your back pain.

I hope it helps.
Let me know if you have any question.I would be happy to help.

Kind regards,
Dr.Rovena Murati

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar