J&J: Nucynta produced fewer side effects than competitor in trial

RARITAN, N.J. A Johnson & Johnson pain drug produced fewer side effects in patients than oxycodone, according to results of a recently published late-stage clinical trial.

J&J announced Monday the results of a phase-3 clinical trial comparing Nucynta (tapentadol) extended-release tablets with oxycodone controlled release tablets. Purdue Pharma sells oxycodone under the OxyContin brand.

The study found that patients with chronic knee, lower back and hip osteoarthritis pain using tapentadol had lower incidences of constipation, nausea and vomiting.