Tramadol (Ultram): An Essential Solution to Chronic Pain

Since its discovery in the 1970s by a German pharmaceutical company, Tramadol has indeed come to be known as the miracle drug for not just acute body pain but also for chronic pain- an unpleasant reality. 

Before we move on to the uses and benefits of this brilliant pain medication, let us first understand what is chronic pain and what are the reasons behind it.

Chronic pain is a pain that lasts for more than 3 months. It can be due to any possible cause. An ongoing flu can lead to chronic pain or probably an injury that you suffered months ago. Unlike acute pain, yoir body keeps hurting for months even after the underlying cause has been treated. It can be considered as the severe after-effects

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It does not only break you down physically but also has the potential to affect your mental health. Isn’t that distressing? Keeping you from doing your regular chores, chronic pain can indeed tear you apart.

But do not worry as Tramadol is an effective pain reliever that can help you get rid of this unruly experience completely. Make sure you consult the doctor before taking this medication.

Here is what you should know about Tramadol and its concept of healing pain.

What is Tramadol?

Known by various brand names of Ultram, Conzip, Ultracet, etc. , Tramadol is an amazing pain medication trusted by most doctors and healthcare professionals. It is one of the oldest pain medications which is still effective and popular today in many countries. So what’s this fuss all about?

This medication has a wide range of pain levels as it can treat moderate to moderately severe pain. Moreover, it can treat both acute as well as chronic pain.

It is an oral prescription medication which comes in immediate-release forms and extended release forms.

Tramadol for chronic pain:

Especially for chronic pain sufferers, this medication is available in an extended-release version that comes in doses of 100 mg and above. The maximum recommended dose for chronic pain is 300 mg.

This version is a slow-release formula that gradually releases the drug for relieving the affected area from pain. There is no limitation on the amount of food intake with this extended release formula.

Along with this medication, rest and timely physical therapy become a requisite for a complete recovery. Dependence on one particular drug is not recommended.

Dosage for Extended Release (Tramadol 100 mg):

·         For starters, it is recommended to start from the lowest effective dose for chronic pain, that is 100 mg.

·         The maximum recommended dose is 300 mg which you should take only after an approval from the doctor.

·         The maximum dosing frequency for Tramadol 100 mg is one tablet or capsule per day.

·         You can take it with or without food.

·         Do not increase or decreases a dose without consulting with your doctor.

·         Do not use the extended release for a period longer than prescribed.

 Possible side effects:

The list of side effects given below may not be a complete list. So, if you come across any of these or other severe side effects, make sure to inform your doctor about the same.

·         Weakness

·          Dizziness

·          Mild headaches

·         Indigestion

·         Stomach trouble

·         Nausea

·         Vomiting

·         Irregular heartbeat

·         High body temperature

·         Fever

·         Flushing

·         Dry mouth

·         Irregular sleep cycle

Tramadol contraindications:

·         Various drugs can diminish the effects of this pain medication and sometimes, lead to majr side effects. Avoid medications like anti-fungals containing ketoconazole, anti-vomiting medicines, medicines for seizures, muscle relaxers, other pain relievers and health supplements like vitamins, minerals, etc.

·         Alcohol consumption can also severely affect the effectiveness of this pain medication. Alcohol is a depressant whereas Tramadol has anti-depressant qualities. The interaction between the two can lead to dizziness, mood swings, etc.

·         People with a medical history of seizures, metabolic disorders, cardiac diseases, renal impairment or other serious health conditions should not take this medication.

·         Pregnant and lactating women also should not take this pain reliever as there are chances of miscarriage and harming the newborn baby respectively.

·         People with a history of drug abuse or suicidal thoughts must avoid taking this medication due to its habit forming characteristic. Doctors should be careful in prescribing these medications to such patients.

Is Tramadol addictive?

For chronic pain, the extended release tablet should be taken once daily for a substantial period of time, until the patient recovers from pain completely.

Sometimes, what happens is that the individual can get caught up in the illusion of taking more and more dose so as to get the same relief from pain. As a result, the body becomes used to it and ultimately, dependent on this medication.

Compared to other pain relievers, this medication is not a strong addictive medicine. If you take this medication timely and as per the doctor’s advice, it is a safe alternative to all other pain relievers. There is no risk of addiction in such a case.

Where to get Tramadol?

Tramadol is available in any registered medical store. All you have to do is put forward the prescription from a qualified doctor and avail the medicine. But if you are unable to move out of your house and the chronic pain is hindering you, do not worry as you can also avail Tramadol online. Various online platforms have started providing these pain medications and delivering it to your doorstep just for your convenience. You can try it out and get relief from the discomfort completely.

Disclaimer: The information provided in the blog post might not be 100% accurate and it is recommended to take guidance from a qualified healthcare professional for further enquiries. Also, recreational use of pain medications is not promoted through this post.