Tramadol

Description

Tramadol is a medication used to relieve moderate to severe pain. It belongs to

a class called opioid analgesics and works by blocking pain signals in the brain and spinal cord, as well as by increasing the effects of chemicals like serotonin and noradrenaline. It inhibits the production of chemicals called prostaglandins that cause pain. Long-term use can lead to physical and psychological dependence, so it must be used under strict medical supervision for the shortest necessary period. Common side effects include dizziness, drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, constipation, and dry mouth. Drinking alcohol while taking this medication is unsafe because it can increase the risk of serious side effects. Be sure to inform your doctor about all other medications you're taking, especially other pain medications, antidepressants, and alcohol, to prevent harmful interactions.

Uses

Contraindications

Side effects

Precautions and Warnings

Uses

For the treatment of moderate-to-severe pain

Contraindications

When should one not use Tramadol

If you are allergic to tramadol or similar medicines
If you are suffering from epilepsy or fits which is not under control by your current treatment
If you are taking sleeping pills, painkillers, or medicines that affect your mood, or if you consume alcohol regularly
If you are taking certain medicines for the treatment of depression or Parkinson’s disease

Side effects

Common side effects of this drug are:

Drowsiness
Headache
Dizziness
Nausea
Vomiting
Constipation
Sweating
Dry mouth

Precautions and Warnings

Pregnancy

Can I take Tramadol during pregnancy?

Tramadol should not be used during pregnancy as limited safety data is available, thus consult your doctor before using it.

Breast Feeding

Can I take Tramadol while breastfeeding?

Tramadol should not be used while breastfeeding as tramadol passes into breastmilk in small amounts, thus consult your doctor before using it.

Driving

Can I drive if I have consumed Tramadol?

You may feel dizzy or drowsy after taking this medicine. Caution is needed while driving or operating machines.

Alcohol

Can I consume alcohol with Tramadol?

You must avoid consuming alcohol with Tramadol

Other General Warnings

Talk to your doctor if

You are suffering from any liver or kidney problem
You experience fits or seizures
You suffer from any psychiatric illnesses and are on medication for the same.
You are taking other medicines containing paracetamol or tramadol
You develop any allergic symptoms or Serotonin syndrome
You are taking medicines to treat pain (containing buprenorphine, nalbuphine or pentazocine)
You notice any sleep-related breathing problems, contact your doctor immediately.
You experience tiredness, lack of appetite, severe stomach pain, nausea, vomiting or low blood pressure, immediately contact your doctor.

Mode of Action

How Does It Work?

Tramadol is a pain reliever that reduces pain perception by inhibiting the transmission of pain signals to the brain.

Interactions

Interactions with other medicines

Some medicines can affect the way Tramadol works, or this medicine itself can reduce the effectiveness of other medicines taken at the same time.
Tell your doctor about all the medicines, supplements, or herbals you are currently taking or might take to avoid any possible interaction.
Especially if you are taking medicines to treat your heart problems, psychiatric illnesses, fits, Parkinson’s disease, allergy, cough, pain or are taking sedative medicines, blood thinners, medication...
Read more
This medicine should not be taken simultaneously or for atleast 2 weeks after treatment with certain medicines (monoamine oxidase inhibitors or MAOIs) used for psychiatric illnesses.

Dosage

Overdose

In case of an overdose, seek urgent medical help

Missed a Dose

Take Tramadol as soon as you remember if you forget a dose. However, if your next dosage is approaching, ignore the missing quantity and return to your usual schedule. Do not take two doses.

Content Details

WRITTEN BY

Dr. Mansi Savla

B. Pharm, PharmD

REVIEWED BY

Dr. Ritu Budania

MBBS, MD (Pharmacology)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is Tramadol used for?

A: Tramadol is used for the treatment of moderate-to-severe pain.

Q: Is Tramadol addictive?

A: Yes, Tramadol can be habit-forming and has a risk of dependence, abuse, and misuse, especially with prolonged use. It is classified as a controlled substance in many regions. You should only take it exactly as prescribed by your doctor.

Q: How long does Tramadol take to work?

A: Immediate-release formulations usually start working within 30 to 60 minutes. Slow-release or extended-release forms take longer but provide pain relief for up to 12 or 24 hours.

Q: What should I do if I miss a dose?

A: Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the regular time. Do not take two doses at once to make up for a missed dose.