Patient was educated on contraindications for using Nucynta as follows:
- Nucynta must be avoided or used cautiously in individuals allergic to other opioid analgesics, such as Hydrocodone, Morphine, and Codeine.
- Nucynta slows down the bowel movements heavily and leads to constipation. Nucynta must be avoided or used with extreme caution in chronically constipated patients, as they are at increased risk for episodes of ileus and intestinal obstruction with Nucynta.
- Nucynta produces an intense feeling of drowsiness and dizziness, as a side effect to modifying the pain perception of brain. Patients can also experience hallucinations and mood changes due to Nucynta use. Nucynta must be avoided or used with extreme caution in individuals taking antidepressants and other psychotropic medications that have the potential to induce hallucinations and mood changes.
- Nucynta is mainly metabolized by the liver. Individuals with history of compromised liver function cannot metabolize Nucynta and this can lead to increased blood levels of Nucynta for longer duration, leading to toxicity. Nucynta should be avoided or used with extreme caution in such individuals.
- Nucynta is mainly excreted in the urine. Individuals with compromised renal functions tend to retain the drug in the circulation longer, thus resulting in toxicity. Nucynta should be avoided or used with extreme caution in such individuals.
