Some basics on Tramadol

    Treating any kind of physical pain is an absolute priority for whoever is experiencing it. This is purely logical, as pain inhibits one’s ability to focus on anything else and as such should be treated as soon as possible. There are more painkillers out there than can fit in a simple article, but in this one we will discuss Tramadol, one of the most popular painkillers in the world.

    Tramadal hydrochloride, or simply Tramadol, is a drug similar to Codeine. It is a synthetic analgesic used to treat mostly more ‘serious’ pain, and is not to be used by people who have a simple headache. Some of the conditions for which Tramadol is used are arthritis, bone fractures and as a postoperative drug. It was first launched as Tramal in 1977 and has since gained popularity worldwide.

    Classified as a central nervous system drug, it comes in numerous forms and mostly in its standard dose of 50mg. Some of the ways in which you can use Tramadol are: capsules, tablets, suppositories, powders, ampoules, and solutions. Other than this, Tramadol is frequently used as an ingredient of many gels and creams that are applied on the skin for treatment of injuries.

    For those taking it as a tablet, Tramadol has an unpleasant taste, but some drops and solutions come in different flavors, many of which taste good (like strawberry flavor). While the maximum daily varies from one manufacturer to another, the standard maximum is about 400mg. In any case, before using Tramadol, make sure you consult your doctor and undergo a medical exam, just so there are no negative surprises afterward.

   Like with most other strong analgesics, Tramadol cannot be recommended to everyone. People who take antidepressants such as Prozac or Zoloft, or any kind of strong opioids should not be using Tramadol. Also, people over 70 years of age and children, as well as adults with a reduced kidney and liver function should do several tests and consult the doctor about the using Tramadol.
 
   While being extremely convenient and efficient, Tramadol isn’t without side effects. Some of the commonly reported negative consequences of using Tramadol are nausea and vomiting, sweating, itching, even constipation. Many patients also report tiredness and drowsiness, however, this is common with most opioids. Unlike with other opioids, Tramadol is not likely to cause respiratory depression, but could cause several withdrawal symptoms. Should the patient stop taking the medicine abruptly, it is possible to experience, nervous tremor, muscle contracting and bodily convulsions in bed, similar to the restless leg
syndrome.

Some studies suggest that using Tramadol over an extended period could cause physical dependence, which is why it is best to use it with continual medical supervision and not in excessive amounts. Most withdrawal symptoms are similar to those of other opiate-like drugs, and can be anxiety, depression, mood swings, sweating, palpitations, insomnia, night terrors, etc.