Tramadol: Uses, Side Effects, Dosage, Warnings

What is Tramadol?

It is a prescription drug. Tramadol drug is available in two kinds, i.e., an immediate-release and extended-release effect. The medicines produced with an immediate-release begin functioning in your system right when you consume it whereas extended ones start working steadily.

You can find tramadol under a brand’s name and as well as a generic drug. The generic type is widely available and costs less than the branded tablet. It is worth noting that tramadol is a controlled substance and you should not opt for it without your primary care specialist’s supervision. The drug is used to relieve all kinds of body pain effectively.

In case you missed a dose, do not take extra medicine and continue with the schedule. Tramadol works as a painkiller, and it is suggested to not missing a dose. On the other, seek medical help immediately if you overdose the drug. It could lead to severe drowsiness, slow breathing, cold skin, slow heart rate, or a worse condition like a coma. It can be fatal for children or adults alike to consume without medical advice.

Uses of Tramadol

The drug is usually prescribed to treat moderate to severe body pain. Health experts often used it as a part of the therapy. That means patients are advised to take the drug along with other medicines to facilitate and speed up the recovery process. The drug is a part of various treatments as it belongs to opioid agonists – a class of drugs.

Tramadol plays a significant role in changing the capability of the brain to sense pain.

Various scientists have regarded it as similar to the substances found in your brain which are called endorphins. These endorphins are receptors which help reduce pain.

The function of tramadol is similar to the receptors. It decreases the pain messages that your brain receives from your body.

Side Effects of Tramadol

It is evident that you should not take medicines without the prescriptions of your medical care provider even in the case of mild pain as it causes drowsiness. Health experts suggest not driving, performing an extra activity, or using heavy machinery once you consume tramadol. Moreover, taking drugs without proper consultation can put you at the risk of adverse effects which could lead to serious health problems. Some of the common side effects associated with the tramadol are:

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Dry mouth
• Nausea and vomiting
• Constipation
• Sweating
• Lack of energy

These side effects are minor and should be gone within a day or two. However, if you still find yourself in the similar condition for a long time, consult with the doctor immediately. You should never overlook the common side effects of the drug as your negligence could lead to a severe health condition. Tramadol doesn’t only contain minor effects, but it has some significant adverse effects as well. The results and their symptoms are:

1. Serotonin Syndrome

The symptoms of serotonin syndrome are harrowing, and you should seek medical help in case of:

• High blood pressure
• Fast heart rate
• Sudden Diarrhea
• Losing control over your movements
• Higher than normal body temperature
• Stronger reflexes than normal
• Hallucination
• Agitation

2. Breathing Problem

These problems are always severe and you shouldn’t take them lightly. Keep an eye on the symptoms and get the treatment right away.

• Fainting, confusion, or dizziness
• Lowered breathing rate
• Slow breathing and chest movement

3. Androgen Deficiency

The following symptoms can indicate androgen deficiency such as:

• Decreased energy
• Improper sleep pattern
• Tiredness

4. Adrenal Insufficiency

You need to visit your primary care provider when encountering signs like these. They may occur due to insufficient adrenal.

• Abdomen pain
• Constant tiredness
• Muscle weakness

You should be feeling well once you recover and stop taking the drug. Despite that, if you fall vulnerable to the given symptoms. Consulting with the doctor is a must.

• Insomnia
• Fast heart and breathing rate
• Anxiety and stress
• High blood pressure level
• Teary eyes
• Large pupils
• Consistent sweating
• A runny nose
• Stomach cramps and diarrhea
• Loss of appetite
• Back, joint, and muscle pain

Apart from aforementioned major or minor symptoms, consulting with the physician is advised in case of:

• Tramadol addiction
• Seizures

Dosage of Tramadol

Your tramadol dosage will be based on your age, condition, other medical condition (if you have any), and reaction to the first dose. You should discuss it with the physician whether your situation needs 50 mg immediate release tablet or extended-release 200m or 300 mg tablet.

· For adults

In case of moderate to severe pain, an adult can take immediate-release tablet 50 mg tablet four times in a day. You can increase the dosage to 200 mg per day if your body can tolerate. Also, adults can maintain the dosage via consuming 50 to 100 mg after every fourth or sixth hour as per the requirement. Health experts suggest maximum 400 mg in a day to the adults.

You can start taking extended-release tramadol with 100 mg per day. Your primary care specialist might increase the dose by 100 mg after five days. Your maximum dosage of extended-release should be 300 mg on a daily basis.

· Dosage for Senior People

Senior people have slow functioning liver and kidney. As a result, the drug will stay in the system longer than usual leading it to the risks of adverse effects. Your doctor may suggest a distinctive dosage schedule as per your condition. Despite that, if you are plus 75 years old, you can take 300 mg immediate-release tablet in a day.

Tramadol Warning

The drug comes with a specific warning. You should not take medicine if you are allergic to opioids.  Tramadol may cause a severe allergic reaction including:

• Swollen face, lips, tongue or throat
• Hives
• Peeling or blistering skin
• Breathing trouble

Consuming alcohol while taking the drug is prohibited as it could decrease your blood pressure and heart rate. You should not take tramadol in a particular health condition as it will worsen your health condition or consult with your doctor before taking the drug:

• Seizures
• Psychological problems
• Head injuries
• Addiction to other medications
• Stomach problems
• Asthma or breathing problems
• Kidney problems
• Liver Problems

Bottom Line

Tramadol is considered adequate when it comes to relieving body pain. There is no question it can help reduce pain in no time. It is still recommended to consult with your healthcare provider before taking the drug to steer clear of adverse effects.

Sources

Healthlineh
Drugs.com

Note : This content does not constitute a medical consultation. See a certified medical professional for diagnosis.