Tapentadol is primarily used for the management of moderate to severe pain in adults. It is often prescribed in situations where other pain medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or weaker opioids, have not provided adequate pain relief.

Specifically, tapentadol may be used for:

1. Acute Pain: Tapentadol can be used to manage acute pain following surgical procedures, injuries, or other medical conditions where short-term pain control is needed.

2. Chronic Pain: It is also indicated for the treatment of chronic pain conditions, such as neuropathic pain (pain arising from nerve damage), musculoskeletal pain (pain affecting the muscles, bones, ligaments, tendons, and nerves), and chronic pain syndromes like fibromyalgia.

3. Cancer Pain: Tapentadol may be used in the management of cancer pain, particularly when other pain management strategies are not sufficient.

4. Pain Management in Special Populations: In some cases, tapentadol may be used in elderly patients or those with compromised kidney function, as it is metabolized differently from other opioids.