Clinical and economic evaluation of tapentadol extended release and oxycodonealoxone extended release in comparison with controlled release oxycodone in musculoskeletal pain

摘要

Objective: Chronic pain is a leading cause of disability and represents a relevant societal burden. Opioids are widely used for managing chronic non-cancer pain; however, the high incidence of side effects is often the main reason for discontinuation. Two formulations have recently been studied to improve the tolerability of opioids (tapentadol extended release [ER] and oxycodonealoxone ER), but a direct comparison between these drugs is not available in the literature. The comparative cost effectiveness of these two drugs has not previously been assessed. The objective of this metaanalysis is a clinical and economic evaluation of tapentadol ER and oxycodonealoxone ER for the treatment of musculoskeletal pain, by indirect comparison with controlled release (CR) oxycodone.