Tramadol is a commonly prescribed painkiller that is often prescribed to treat moderate to severe pain. This medication is unique among painkillers in that it is often used to treat specific types of painful conditions like restless leg syndrome and fibromyalgia. Tramadol is a weak opioid agonist, making it less addictive than other narcotic painkillers, and also affects serotonin levels and the norepinephrine receptor. This combination of mechanisms is what makes tramadol effective in treating certain pain that other opiates may not relieve as well. Tramadol is generally available in 37.5 mg, 50 mg, and 100 mg tablets, although other dosages may exist. It is sometimes combined with acetaminophen (Tylenol), for added analgesic effect. Tramadol has a ceiling dose of 400 mg a day when taken orally, in order to prevent adverse side effects from appearing.
In addition to being used to treat pain from a variety of disorders, many doctors prescribe tramadol specifically to treat certain types of pain. Dosages of up to 400 mg a day are prescribed for Restless leg syndrome, Fibromyalgia and Migraine headache
Tramadol is also used in veterinary medicine since it helps to relieve pain-related anxiety in animals, and is well-tolerated in many species.
Side Effects
Tramadol, like many other analgesic medications, has been known to produce side effects, although the side effect profile is in many cases less than what is seen with other opioid medications such as oxycodone or codeine. These side effects can include Nausea, Vomiting, Constipation, Drowsiness, Sweating and Itching
Many of these side effects diminish or disappear entirely as a patient becomes more accustomed to the medication.
Contraindications
Since tramadol has several mechanisms of action, care must be used when combining it with other medications. In particular, tramadol should not be taken with SSRI, tricyclic, or MAOI antidepressants, due to the risk of seizure or serotonin syndrome. Additionally, tramadol should not be taken with other opioid painkillers due to the risk of respiratory depression. Care should be used when combining tramadol with other CNS depressants such as anxiety medications (Valium, Xanax), sleeping medications (Ambien, Sonata), or antihistamines. Consult a doctor before drinking alcohol when taking tramadol
Veterinarians sometimes prescribe the analgesic tramadol for dogs (and sometimes cats) for the treatment of moderate to severe pain. read more
Tramadol for back pain is also commonly known by the brand name Ultram.
Tramadol is an opioid analgesic drug prescribed for back pain management.
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