Tramadol information

What is Tramadol?

Tramadol is a synthetic opioid, i.e. it has the same painkilling effect as a drug derived from opium, but it achieves that effect with a significantly lower risk of dependence.

Important information about Tramadol

Although this drug is safer than any of the opiates, there’s still a risk of dependence. If you have ever had any problems of dependence on prescription drugs or alcohol, you should ask your doctor before starting to take Tramadol. There are also issues to resolve if you have been or are clinically depressed, particularly if you have ever thought about harming yourself.

Before taking Tramadol

If you have problems with drug allergies, have someone around the first time you take Tramadol. There can be side effects if you recently had a head injury or you have a medical history of seizures. Finally, if you are taking any other drugs for depression, anxiety or sleep disorders, check there will be no interactions should you add Tramadol.

How should I take Tramadol?

Always take the dosage prescribed. There can be a risk of dependence if you take too high a dosage or take the drug for longer than prescribed. It’s also important not to chew or crush the tablet or capsule. This speeds up the rate at which the drug is absorbed into your bloodstream and can cause side effects. Whether you take the tablets before or after food is your choice, but you should be consistent. Finally, if you have been taking this drug for any length of time, get advice on how to stop. You may experience withdrawal symptoms if you stop suddenly. The best strategy is to slowly reduce the dose over time to allow your body to adjust.

Tramadol safety and precautions

It can produce unwanted side effects if you drink alcohol when taking Tramadol. You should also take care where you store this drug and ensure it’s out of the reach both of children and anyone who has had problems of addiction. It’s not recommended that you give Tramadol to anyone aged under 16 years and older people should only take the lowest possible dosages. One of the side effects is confusion and a slight loss of coordination. Until you know how it affects you, it’s unwise to drive a car or operate any type of machine that can be a danger, whether to yourself or others.

Tramadol side effects

There are few side effects to worry about. The more common are a slight loss of coordination, confusion and feeling anxious. Some feel drowsy or get a headache. More serious are growing agitated and experiencing hallucinations. A very few people suffer seizures.

What other drugs will affect tramadol?

You should give your doctor a list of all the other drugs you are taking, particularly if this includes some of the standard antidepressants or other drugs to control anxiety, panic and other symptoms of mental disorder. There may also be problems if you mix any sleeping pills or other drugs that can make you feel drowsy.