Tapentadol is a prescription pain medication used to treat moderate to severe acute or chronic pain. It combines two mechanisms of action: it acts as a mu-opioid receptor agonist and inhibits the reuptake of norepinephrine. This dual action makes tapentadol effective in managing both nociceptive and neuropathic pain. It is commonly prescribed for conditions such as lower back pain, osteoarthritis, and pain after surgery or injury.