Here is some info on it:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tapentadol

That was an unusually interesting Wikipedia article. It's wild to see a manufacturer so out in front to say "please don't make it a schedule III drug because we can't compete with the generic opiods." Remarkably like watching a movie producer argue in favor of a less restrictive rating. Except of course that the manufacturer can't opt for "this drug is unscheduled."

Mike

Yes, Mike, the drug industry is amazing sometimes.

I think this drug approval is reflecting the "new" FDA.
You know Ultram, is similar to this new drug. It has norepi and mu activity but is less potent(it is also from McNeil). It has a subset of people who become dependent on it. Forge RXs for it even. I've been trying Ultram for my pain issues recently, and it really knocked me down with a euphoria/tripping I have never had before. I was hoping to using it at night sometimes but it is not turning out to be helpful ..the pain dose is the side effect dose for me. 1/2 tab doesn't do much but does reduce the "tripping". (I had Demerol when I had surgery 28 yrs ago, and never had THAT). So I guess the FDA wishes it had put Ultram on controlled status too.

There are changes coming in the treatment of chronic pain.
I think this new drug approval reflects that.