Summary: Tramadol is essentially a miracle drug. Therefore, it is absolutely necessary to know the true facts about it before using it wisely to benefit from it.
Ultram, a synthetic analgesic medication, is sold in the generic form as Tramadol. The actual mode of operation of Tramadol is still in the dark, but it is said to have the same effects and actions like those of morphine. The medicine is said to bind to opioid receptors, which are responsible for the transmission of the sensation of pain throughout the body.
The 10 facts that one should know for using it safely so as to not harm oneself as follows,
1. Tramadol is suggested for treating moderate to moderately acute pain. It belongs to the category of drugs known as opiate agonists. Basically it works by alternating the way the body feels the pain. It is generally mistaken to be a NSAID (non-steroidal anti- inflammatory drug). However, that is not true.
2. Tramadol is present in immediate and extended release formulations. The doctor will suggest the dosages of the release tablets depending on the severity of the problem.
3. Extended release tablets have to be taken in as whole; they must not be chewed, crushed or be split into pieces. Proper care should be taken while consuming them or else they can lead to serious side effects.
4. Tramadol consumption has the risk of turning into a habit. Consuming more of it than prescribed by the doctor can lead to dependency on it. On the other hand sudden withdrawal also can lead to some complications. Therefore it is advised to consult the doctor for the proper recommendations.
5. Sometimes drug interactions can also occur. Like, Carbamanzepine reduces tramadol efficiency and Quinidine enhances its concentration by 50% to 60%. Similarly other interactions can also occur.
6. Combination with some other substances can increase respiratory and central nervous system depression. Therefore breathing can get affected and stopped if is taken with alcohol, narcotics and others.
7. Tramadol’s effects during pregnancy have not been established yet; hence its usage during pregnancy should be avoided.
8. The side effects of the medicine are usually temporary. Therefore it is generally well tolerated. Some common side effects include nausea, constipation, dizziness, drowsiness, headache, seizures and vomiting. Slight cases of itching, sweating, rash, vertigo, dry mouth, and diarrhea have also been noted.
9. In case of an overdose or emergency of Tramadol, local poison control centre has to be informed. Overdose symptoms include decreased pupil size, coma, heart attack, seizure, unconscious, breathing difficulty and staying awake.
10. A Cochrane review has revealed the fact that Tramadol offers small relief in the treatment of osteoarthritis. Prolonged consumption over three months can lead to decreased pain.
Tramadol is quite effective with minimal side effects when consumed wisely.