Tramadol

Tramadol is an opioid-like pain reliever and inhibits pain signals in the brain. This effect is derived from the active substance originating from opium. In medicine, drugs related to opium are referred to as opioids.

What is tramadol used for?

In practice, tramadol is prescribed as a muscle relaxant, mainly because of its calming effect. However, due to its strong analgesic effect, tramadol can also be used for nerve pain, joint pain, or severe pain after an operation.

When prescribing pain medication, the so-called pain ladder is often used. This is a step-by-step plan developed by the World Health Organization (WHO). Within this plan, tramadol is prescribed only when milder pain relievers such as acetaminophen or anti-inflammatory medicines, for example diclofenac or ibuprofen, do not help or do not help enough.

What are the possible side effects of tramadol?

Besides the desired effect, tramadol can also cause side effects. The most common side effects, occurring in 10 to 30 out of 100 people, are nausea, drowsiness, sleepiness, and possibly reduced concentration. Therefore, during the first two weeks of taking tramadol, you must not drive. After that, it depends on any side effects.

Less common, in 1 to 10 out of 100 people, are constipation, a dry mouth, dizziness, itching, and rash. The last two may indicate hypersensitivity to the active substances.

This is a brief overview of the possible side effects of tramadol. A more detailed list is provided in the package leaflet.

Where is tramadol available?

Tramadol has been on the market since 1977 and is only available with a prescription from a medical specialist. It is available in tablet form, capsules, drops, suppositories, and injections. Tramadol is sold under the brand names Tramagetic and Tramal or as generic tramadol. In accordance with the pain ladder, it can also be prescribed in combination with acetaminophen, for example under the brand name Zaldiar.