Tramadol for Chronic Pain

People who live with chronic pain often undergo months, if not years of medication adjustments to find the right dosage and combinations that relieve the most pain. For some people, part of their treatment plan includes Tramadol for chronic pain. Tramadol hydrochloride (often sold under the names Ultram or Tramal) is part of a class of medications called opiate agonists, is used to relieve moderate to moderately severe pain. Tramadol is often prescribed as extended-release tablets, which are used by people expected to need medication to relieve pain around-the-clock for a long period of time.

Tramadol does not need to be taken with food, but it can cause drowsiness, so care should be taken when driving or operating heavy machinery until you know what effect the medication will have on you. It is not advised to take this medication while pregnant or breastfeeding.

Side effects that have been reported for Tramadol include:
• agitation, anxiety or nervousness,
• blurred vision,
• constipation, diarrhea,
• dizziness,
• drowsiness,
• dry mouth,
• flushing,
• headache,
• mood changes,
• muscle tightness,
• sweating

There have been rare reports of more serious side effects that include an allergic reaction and the person may have difficulty with breathing or swallowing, flu-like symptoms, hallucinations, rapid heartbeat or seizures. If any of these symptoms occur, call your doctor immediately.

If your treatment protocol changes and you need to stop taking the medication, you should taper off slowly and not discontinue the medication suddenly. If you would like to stop taking the medication, talk to your health car provider first to create a treatment plan.

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