Tramadol is used to help individuals manage pain. The analgesic is also sold under the generic name Ultram. It is very similar to a narcotic and belongs to the class of drugs called opiate agonists. Doctors often prescribe this pain reliever to enable individuals to manage any type of moderate to severe chronic pain. Tramadol is not meant to be used as a long-term measure, but rather a temporary reliever for severe pain.

Benefits Of Tramadol

• Works very quickly – as fast as 30 minutes
• Treats many forms of chronic pain
• Reduces moderate to severe pain
• May be used to treat obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
• Causes fewer side effects than most pain relievers
• Requires only one daily dose

How It Works

Doctors may prescribe Tramadol for either immediate or extended release, depending on your particular situation. The immediate release tablets are available in 50 mg doses, whereas the time-release tablets can be purchased in 100, 200 or 300 mg doses. Time-release Tramadol is designed to help anyone who requires longer-term pain management.

Taking Tramadol

It’s crucial that you follow your doctor’s instructions exactly when you take Tramadol. Therefore, you should never chew, crush or inject Tramadol. You can take the tablets every 4-6 hours, depending on your situation. It doesn’t matter whether you take Tramadol with or without food, but you should drink a full glass of water with each dose. Taking the drug at the same time each day will also improve its effectiveness.

Possible Side Effects

Most of the side effects caused by Tramadol are minor. They include vomiting, a loss of appetite, constipation, weakness, flushing, nausea or blurred vision. However, you should discontinue taking Tramadol and contact your doctor immediately if you experience more serious side effects such as shallow breathing, convulsions, seizures, a blistering skin rash or a weak pulse.