What is Tramadol?
Tramadol is a pain reliever that belongs to the same family as morphine, codeine, and oxycodone. It is less potent than these medications and requires a prescription from a doctor.
What is Tramadol used for?
Tramadol is used to relieve moderate to severe pain.
How does Tramadol work?
Tramadol works by blocking the transmission of pain messages from the nerves to the brain. It enhances the activity of certain brain chemicals in a similar way to morphine.
What types of Tramadol are available?
Tramadol is the active ingredient in various brands that come in different forms, such as capsules, long-acting tablets, drops, or injections. The dosage and frequency of use depend on the brand and your doctor’s instructions.
Risks and benefits of Tramadol
Tramadol is effective in reducing pain, but it may cause minor and temporary side effects such as dizziness, nausea, constipation, sweating, fatigue, headache, dry mouth, and vomiting. Rare but severe side effects include skin rash, swelling of the face or lips, chest pain, heart palpitations, hallucinations, and seizures. Tramadol can be addictive if used in high doses or for prolonged periods.
Alternatives to Tramadol
Your doctor may recommend other pain relief medications or therapies such as physical therapy and counseling.
Is Tramadol addictive?
Tramadol can be addictive if used improperly or for non-medical purposes. Physical dependence on Tramadol can develop over time with increased and prolonged use, leading to withdrawal symptoms such as panic, sweating, nausea, nervousness, muscle pain, tremor, sneezing, runny nose, diarrhea, cold chills, and seizures. Psychological dependence may also occur, causing cravings and drug-seeking behavior.
What are the long-term effects of Tramadol addiction?
Long-term Tramadol use can cause serious health problems such as seizures, adrenal and androgen insufficiency, respiratory problems, serotonin syndrome, liver and kidney damage, and psychological effects such as social isolation, neglect of personal hygiene, and mental disorders.