Tramadol medicine was originally created in the late 1970s, and it has become one of the most popular pain relievers available in the modern era. Some doctors have even gone so far as to call it miracle medication, due to its effectiveness in providing relief from even the most stubborn cases of chronic pain. But what are the various uses and health benefits of tramadol medicine? Find out below!
What is Tramadol?
First developed in 1977, tramadol is a prescription medicine often used to treat moderate to severe pain. It is an opioid-like drug that works by attaching to receptors in your brain called opioid receptors, which reduces pain signals being sent from nerves to your brain.
How Does It Work?
Tramadol is a synthetic opiate drug that functions as an agonist of opioid receptors in order to help relieve pain. While it can be used to treat moderate-to-severe acute pain, it’s also often prescribed for conditions like neuropathic pain, osteoarthritis, and cancer-related pain. It was first developed in Germany by Grünenthal GmbH in 1977; its purpose was to ease pain caused by injuries sustained during surgeries.
Dosage & Administration
Tramadol is available in immediate-release (IR) tablets, a controlled-release (CR) tablet, an oral solution, a capsule and an extended-release (ER) tablet. This medicine should be taken only as directed by your physician. If you miss a dose take it as soon as possible, but if it is almost time for your next dose skip the missed dose. Do not take more than one pill every 24 hours.
What Are the Side Effects?
Although tramadol has been shown to be a safe and effective medicine, it does have its share of side effects. These side effects include: drowsiness, dizziness, lightheadedness, nausea, headache, constipation, blurred vision (or other visual disturbances), runny nose or nasal congestion. Allergic reactions are also possible.
Is There Any Long-Term Harm?
The question about long-term harm is one that comes up a lot in discussions about medications, and it’s perfectly reasonable to be concerned. There are some things you can do to minimize your risk, such as avoiding illicit street drugs (like heroin) when taking tramadol, but with any medication you should consult your doctor first before taking it. It’s generally safe, although they’ll probably advise you not to take if you have certain conditions or take other types of medication.
Who Shouldn’t Take it?
As a pain reliever, tramadol is safe for most adults. It’s often prescribed to relieve moderate-to-severe pain that has not responded to other types of treatment. However, some people are at risk for side effects or complications from tramadol. Use caution if you have liver or kidney disease, breathing problems such as asthma or sleep apnea, seizures, eating disorders such as anorexia or bulimia nervosa, alcoholism, schizophrenia or bipolar disorder.
What are Some Other Important Things to Know?
Some people also feel sleepy or experience constipation as side effects. To be on the safe side, never take more than 400 mg within a 24-hour period, unless instructed to do so by your doctor. Do not mix tramadol with alcohol or other drugs without first consulting your physician. If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, ask your doctor if taking tramadol is a good idea for you.
