General Information

Tramadol is the generic form of Ryzolt and Ultram. Tramadol comes in regular immediate release pills (50 mg) for moderate to severe pain, and extended release capsules (100 mg, 200 mg, or 300 mg) for the treatment of chronic moderate to severe pain. Tramadol is an analgesic medication, in that it blocks the pain signals to the brain without affecting any other brain function. It is an opiate agonist in that it works similar to morphine to block the body’s pain sensors. It is not a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) like aspirin. It is available with a prescription.

Uses and Doses

Tramadol is used for conditions that require pain control such as arthritis or cancer. Other uses include prescribing for restless leg syndrome, fibromyalgia, or acid reflux.

It should be taken initially in doses of 25 mg every four to six hours, and increased after three days to 50 mg every four to six hours. The dosage should increase every three days to 100 mg or 200 mg for maximum pain control. The maximum daily dose is 400 mg, and should not be exceeded. The capsules should never be chewed or broken up before taking.

How to Take Tramadol

It comes in a white capsule shaped pill that is coated for easy swallowing. It also comes in effervescent tablets, liquid form, powders for compounding, and solutions for injections. A suppository is also available. Physicians should prescribe the recommended form of Tramadol for the condition being treated.

Side Effects

There are several side effects with the use of Tramadol. They include nausea, constipation, dizziness, headaches, vomiting, and drowsiness. These side effects are not common, as the drug is generally well tolerated. Seizures have been reported in some patients taking the drug, as well as itching, dry mouth, and diarrhea. As with any other medication, side effects should be immediately reported to the prescribing physician.

Warnings and Precautions

Tramadol should not be taken by anyone with a history of drug and/or alcohol abuse. It should not be taken by anyone with a history of suicide attempts or who is taking psychotropic drugs for mental illness and/or depression. It should not be used in combination with any street drugs. Pregnant and nursing mothers should avoid taking the drug. Never let another person use any of the drug if it has not been prescribed for them.
The drug can be addictive, and withdrawal symptoms can occur if the drug is stopped suddenly. These symptoms include nausea, sweating, chills, hallucinations, and breathing problems. The physician should be contacted before stopping the drug completely, as it should be gradually reduced in dosage before it is no longer consumed. Never take more than the prescribed dosage to prevent addiction problems.

If taken with alcohol it can affect the respiratory and nervous system, resulting in breathing problems. There are also contraindications if taken with other specific drugs, so the doctor prescribing should be informed about any other medications being taken.

Those with kidney or liver disease should use caution when taking the drug, and do so only under the close supervision of a physician.

Overdose Precaution

Call emergency transport personnel immediately if an accidental overdose of Tramadol occurs. Symptoms of an overdose can include being light-headed, feeling drowsy or extremely sleepy, weakness, difficulty breathing, or even fainting. Overdosing on the drug can have serious life-threatening results, so immediate attention is required. Call 911 as soon as possible if an overdose is suspected.

Additional Information

If the medicine is not working to reduce the level and severity of pain, consult with the prescribing physician for an adjustment of dosage. Elderly patients should be careful with taking the medication, as they may react with more severe symptoms due to age. This medication should used only for the condition prescribed, and contact with the prescribing physician will ensure the correct dosage and usage.

Disclaimer

The information on Tramadol is for general informational purposes only. The information contained herein does not cover all uses, directions, drug interactions, precautions, or adverse side effects, but is general information only and not relied on for any purpose. There are no specific instructions for any particular patient, and the information should not be construed as patient-specific instructions. We disclaim all responsibility for the accuracy and reliability of this information, and/or any consequences arising from the use of this information, including damage or adverse consequences to persons or property. No warranties, expressed or implied, are made in regards to information contained herein.