Tramadol is a pain killer medicine similar to an opioid and is classified as a synthetic opioid. It acts in the central nervous system (CNS) to relieve pain.
Tramadol is used to treat moderate to severe pain in adults.
The extended-release form of tramadol is for long term treatment of pain. This form of tramadol is not for use on an immediate basis for pain.
This medication is used to help reduce moderate to severe pain. Tramadol belongs to a class of drugs known as opioid analgesics. It works in the brain to change how your body feels and responds to pain.
Tramadol side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have symptoms of an allergic reaction to tramadol (hives, swelling in your face or throat, difficult breathing) or a severe skin reaction (fever, burning in your eyes, red or purple skin rash, sore throat, skin pain)
Tramadol can slow or stop your breathing that may result in death. The person looking after you should give naloxone and/or seek emergency medical attention if you have slow breathing with long pauses, blue colored lips, or if you are hard to wake up.
Call your doctor immediately if you have:
- a slow heart rateor weak pulse;
- seizures or convulsions;
- noisy breathing, sighing, shallow breathing, breathing that stops during sleep;
- low cortisol levels– nausea, dizziness, worsening tiredness, weakness, vomiting or loss of appetite,
- a light-headed feeling, like you might pass out;
Seek medical attention right away if you have symptoms of serotonin syndrome, such as: fever, sweating, shivering, fast heart rate, muscle stiffness, agitation, hallucinations, twitching, and loss of coordination, nausea, or vomiting.
Serious breathing problems may be more likely in older adults and people who are debilitated or have wasting syndrome or chronic breathing disorders.
Common tramadol side effects may include:
- dizziness, drowsiness, tiredness;
- constipation, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain;
- Itching; or
- Headache.
Warnings
Seizures have been seen in people taking tramadol. Your risk of seizures is higher if you are taking higher doses than prescribed specifically for you. Seizure risk is also higher in those with a seizure disorder or those taking certain antidepressants or opioid medications.
Tramadol should not be used if you are suicidal or prone to addiction.
You should not take tramadol if you have severe breathing problems, if you have recently used alcohol, a blockage in your stomach or intestines, sedatives, tranquilizers, or any narcotic medication.
Tramadol can slow or stop your breathing, and may be addictive or habit-forming. Misuse of this medicine can cause overdose, addiction, or death, especially in a child or other person using the medicine without a prescription.
Tramadol should not be given to a child younger than 12 years old, or anyone younger than 18 years old who recently had surgery to remove the tonsils or adenoids. Ultram ER should not be given to anyone younger than 18 years old.
Intake of tramadol during pregnancy may cause life-threatening withdrawal symptoms in the newborn.
Fatal side effects can occur if you use this medicine along with alcohol, or with other drugs that cause drowsiness or slow your breathing.
