Tramadol (Ultram)
Tramadol, commonly marketed as Ultram, is a synthetic substance designed to alleviate pain in those suffering serious pain due to injury or surgery. It's main form is a hydrochloride salt that is compressed into tablet form but is also available as an injectable/intraveneous form. One of the most unique characteristics of Tramadol's availability is that it is not considered a controlled substance in most countries and is even available without a prescription in some regions. There is speculation that Tramadol (Ultram) may also be effective as an anti depressant due to its pharmacology but this has yet to be verified.
Proper Usage of Tramadol (Ultram)
Tramadol (Ultram) is available in tablet or injectable forms and should only be used exactly as prescribed by a physician. Tramadol tablets should not be crushed and added to liquid or injected. These methods of usage as well as inhalation can have harmful consequences and can lead to overdose. Injectable solutions are specfically prepared and should only be used via syringe or an intraveneous drip.
Ultram is a fast acting opiate pain killer and users should avoid alcohol when using Tramadol due to increased drug effects. Most Tramadol tablets are time release in nature and breaking the surface of the tablet can cause excessive amounts of the medication to enter the bloodstream at one time. As a result, any ingestion of Tramadol (Ultram) tablets with broken surface coating should be avoided..
Tramadol (Ultram) should be taken with water and never in doses that are greater than have been prescribed by your doctor. If a dosage is missed, it should be taken immediately upon remembering unless it is time for your next scheduled dosage. DO NOT consume additional amounts of Tramadol to attempt to to stay on your prescribed schedule, this can lead to overdose.
Precautions When Taking Tramadol
Notify your physicians (your Dentist included) prior to having any procedure that is scheduled to be performed to avoid the dangerous effects of drug interactions.
Do not use Tramadol (Ultram) if you are taking MAO inhibitors, antidepressants or any other prescription medications without first consulting a physician. Cold and allergy medications should also be avoided (along with alcohol, as mentioned) as well as sleeping pills. These mixtures can cause severe impairment of judgement.
After prolonged usage, you should not suddenly stop taking Tramadol (Ultram) without consulting a doctor. In most cases it is recommended that you gradually reduce the dosage over time and eventually stop taking Tramadol after this period. This is recommended due to the possible withdrawal symptoms that can surface when ending a Tramadol usage period.
Tramadol (Ultram) can impair your ability to think and react quickly so it is not recommended that users drive or perform any tasks requiring mental alertness or quick reactions.
Drug Interactions
If you use any of the following medications (or any prescription medications at all), notify your doctor before taking Tramadol:
- Marplan
- Parnate
- Nardil
- Elavil
- Celexa
- Prozac
- Paxil
- Zoloft
- Coumadin
Common Brand Names for Tramadol (Ultram)
- Ultram
- Adolan
- Anadol
- Lumidol
- Tradol
- Tralodie
- Tradolan
- Zydol
Side Effects of Tramadol (Ultram)
Various side effects may occur with Tramadol (Ultram). These include (but are not limited to): Nausea, vomiting, sweating, seizures (especially in those with epilepsy, decreased heartrate, drowsiness, rashy skin, weak pulse, blurred vision, flushing, sleep depravation. If you experience any of these symptoms, immediately contact your physician or a medical facility.