Tramadol
Uses of Tramadol
Tramadol is commonly used as an anesthesia and in the treatment of moderate to severe pain, and opioid dependence
How Tramadol Works
Tramadol which is an opioid analgesic that acts centrally works by inhibiting the reuptake of norepinephrine and enhancing the serotonin release. It also binds to mu-opiate receptors in the CNS thus altering perception and response to pain
Side Effects of Tramadol
Respiratory depression, Seizure, Dizziness, Headache, Fatigue, Weakness, Sweating, Confusion, Disturbance in coordination, Rashes
Warnings
Kidney Use With Care
Tramadol should be used with care in patients suffering from kidney diseases especially advance chronic kidney disease as its systemic elimination is reduced.
Alcohol Not Advisable
Efficacy of Tramadol decreases if patient is taking alcohol and patient easily become intoxicated when taking alcohol along with it, increasing the side effects of Tramadol.
Pregnancy Not Safe
Animal studies revealed that Tramadol given at very high doses showed effects on organ development, bone tissue formation, and neonatal mortality. However, teratogenic effects were not observed. Nevertheless, limited data available on the safety of Tramadol in human fetal risk. Tramadol should not be used in pregnant women.
Driving Not advisable
Do not drive unless you are feeling well. Tramadol may cause side effects such as dizziness, headches, nausea or palpitations, all of which could affect the ability to concentrate and drive.
Liver Use With Care
In patients with hepatic insufficiency, the removal of Tramadol is delayed, therefore it should be used cautiously.
Lactation Not Advisable
A quite significant amount of Tramadol is excreted into the breast milk, therefore, Tramadol should not be used while lactating however it is not necessary to discontinue breastfeeding after a single dose of this medication
Frequently Asked Questions
Written by Dr Sri Viknarajan, MD (Universiti Hasanuddin, Indonesia)
Reviewed by Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli, MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM).
