Active ingredient | Tramadol |
---|---|
Manufacturer | Opioid analgesics |
Working | Works by affecting how the brain and CNS responds
to moderate pain |
Kicks In | Within an hour |
Lasts Long | Up to 6 hours |
Tramadol
Tramadol comes under the class of opioid agonists. It is a medication that is used to relieve moderate to moderately severe pain. It is available as an immediate-release and extended-release drug. The daily dose varies from patient to patient, however, it is usually recommended to keep it within 400 mg. It is an addictive drug and should only be used under a doctor’s supervision.
How does Tramadol work?
Tramadol is similar to endorphins in your brain, which bind to receptors. Tramadol blocks the pain signals which are traveling from the nerves to the brain. By working in the brain, it changes how your body reacts to pain.
Uses of Tramadol
Tramadol is used to relieve moderate to moderately severe pain. It is possible that you have to consume it with other medications, and that it is a part of combination therapy.
Recommended Dose
Consume Tramadol according to your doctor’s prescription. The dose can vary from patient to patient, depending on their sensitivity to pain and response to the painkiller. However, normally a dose within 400 mg per day is recommended. You can consume this drug either with or without food.
What happens if you miss a dose?
This depends on the kind of Tramadol that you are consuming – fast-acting tablets, slow-release tablets, and capsules.
In case you miss a dose, consult either the patient information leaflet or your doctor.
Do not take two doses together.
What happens if you take an overdose?
An overdose of Tramadol can be dangerous. In case of an overdose, if the patient shows symptoms such as slow breathing, slow/irregular heartbeat, coma, seizure, then quickly call the emergency number. Give the patient naloxone, if it is available, and if the patient has symptoms such as passing out or trouble in breathing.
Side-Effects
Tramadol should only be used under a doctor’s prescription. Some commonly occurring side effects of Tramadol are –
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Constipation
- Lightheadedness
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Headache
Side effects of administration of Tramadol usually decrease with time as you continue its usage.
Plenty of water and dietary fibre can help prevent constipation. It is possible that a patient might need a laxative; consult your pharmacist or your doctor for the same.
Most people who use this medication do not suffer from any serious side effects. However, in case you suffer from any of the following side effects, consult your doctor immediately –
- Interrupted breathing during sleep
- Mental/mood swings
- Severe stomach pain
- Abdominal pain
- Difficulty while urinating
- Difficulty in waking up
- Loss of appetite
- Unusual tiredness
- Weight loss
- Fast/irregular heartbeat
- Severe dizziness
- Fainting
- Seizures
In rare cases, there is a risk of serotonin syndrome, a condition wherein the serotonin increases. The risk is higher if you are consuming other medications that also increase serotonin. It is best to tell your doctor about your medical history to avoid the risk of serotonin syndrome.
Before you take Tramadol
Inactive ingredients can cause allergic reactions and other problems, therefore, notify your doctor if you have any allergies before consuming Tramadol.
Inform your doctor of your medical history, especially if it includes mental/mood disorders, kidney disorders, brain disorders, breathing issues, stomach or intestinal problems, gallbladder disease, personal or family history of substance abuse.
Do not consume Tramadol with the drug Carbamazepine. It makes Tramadol less effective and increases the risk of seizure.
Side effects of the drug include drowsiness and dizziness. Consumption of alcohol can make it worse. Do not perform tasks that require you to pay attention, after taking this drug.
There is a risk of QT prolongation which can result in a fast and irregular heartbeat. The risk can increase if you have certain medical conditions or due to drug interactions if you are consuming more than one drug.
Children can be more prone to certain side effects of Tramadol such as extreme sleepiness, confusion, or slow/shallow/noisy breathing.
Older adults are more prone to the side effects of this drug. They may suffer from QT prolongation, confusion, dizziness, slow/shallow breathing, drowsiness.
If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, then the consumption of this drug can adversely affect the infant. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor before you consume Tramadol.
Storage Instructions
For smart and safe-keeping of the drug, follow the mentioned steps –
- Store the medicine in a cool, dry place.
- Make sure that the medicine is away from excessive light and heat.
- Make sure that the medication is out of reach of children and pets.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What will happen if I stop taking Tramadol?
Usually, the dose is slowly reduced to avoid withdrawal symptoms. However, if you stop using it suddenly, you might face symptoms such as anxiety, agitation, shaking, and sweating.
Does Tramadol make you sleepy?
A side effect of Tramadol includes drowsiness. This drug should not be consumed if you need to do work that requires you to pay attention to it.
Is Tramadol a good painkiller?
Tramadol is a strong drug. It is a medication that is used to relieve moderate to moderately severe pain. It can be administered after a severe injury, or after an operation. It is also used to treat long-standing pain if weaker pain-killers do not work.
Is Tramadol stronger than hydrocodone?
Hydrocodone is considered more powerful than tramadol. Tramadol is a man-made opioid, while hydrocodone is a semi-synthetic opioid.
Does Tramadol make you happy?
Tramadol is an addictive drug that shares some of the same effects as heroin. This painkiller can make you feel calm and happy.
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