Tramadol safety

Tramadol is the generic formulation of the popular painkiller Ultram, possessing analgesic effects similar to previous generation of painkillers such as morphine. Being an opiate-like medication Tramadol acts by affecting the opioid receptors in the nervous system, which are responsible for the sensations of pain. Tramadol is a quite safe solution if taken in the right amounts and under doctor's supervision. Usually, Tramadol is employed in cases of moderate and severe pain and can be prescribed for chronic pain too, but it's not as strong as Vicodin or Oxycontins. Due to its opiate antagonist nature Tramadol alters the perception of pain in the brain.

Tramadol is available both in normal and extended release form for different types of pain. Different dosages are also available, 50mg being most widely used as immediate release and dosages between 100mg and 300mg – as extended release. Extended release Tramadol is usually prescribed to patients with chronic pain conditions. Do not chew or crush the tablet, take is as a whole with a full glass of water. Tramadol can be addictive due to its opioid nature and taking it for longer periods of time may develop addiction and tolerance, making you feel that more Tramadol is needed to achieve the same analgesic effect as earlier. Never modify the dosage of Tramadol without your doctor's consent or stop taking it, otherwise you may experience unpleasant withdrawal effects. That is why when ceasing the course of Tramadol the dosage should be lowered gradually.

Tramadol safety is assured by how honest and detailed you are with your physician about any medications or substances you are currently taken. Some substances may interact with Tramadol, altering its effects or causing serious side-effects. For example, Carbamazepine (medication for seizures and bi polar disorder) will reduce the effectiveness of Tramadol, while Quinidine (heart disease medication) makes it 50-60% stronger. So make sure to inform your doctor about these or any similar medications if you are taking them.

MAO and SSRI inhibitors are known to interact with Tramadol and cause side-effects in the form of seizures. Tramadol is not safe to take by pregnant or breastfeeding women. Never combine Tramadol with street drugs, alcohol, sedatives or anesthetics otherwise your nervous system may be depressed to a hazardous extent.

Report any unpleasant side-effects to your doctor when experiencing them and do exactly as your physician tells you. Taking Tramadol in a wrong way can be more dangerous than any of its possible side-effects.