Tramadol

Tramadol

Tramadol is an oral tablet that can be taken with or without food. It is recommended to begin Tramadol use with a low dosage and increase it gradually throughout a three day period. Tramadol can be taken every 4-6 hours; however, frequent use of Tramadol can cause serious side effects and is not recommended. Consult your doctor on what daily dosage is right for you and make sure you do not exceed your maximum dosage.

The prescription label on your medication should be read carefully and followed exactly. If for any reason you do not understand the indications on the label please contact your doctor or ask the pharmacist to assist you in clarifying any doubts you might have. Your doctors indications should be followed while taking Tramadol and should not changed, increased or prolonged at any time as Tramadol has habit forming properties. Contact your doctor if you notice any uncommon changes in your mood or behavior or if you feel that you require more medication than what have currently been recommended.

Various withdrawal symptoms may be experienced after suddenly stopping Tramadol intake. To avoid these side effects you should contact your doctor before you stop taking Tramadol. It is usually recommended that dosage be decreased gradually until reaching a nil amount. Sudden discontinuity of Tramadol can cause numerous side effects including burning or tingling in the hands and feet, coughing or sneezing, runny nose, numbness, hair standing on end, sweating, nervousness, panic, pain and difficulty falling asleep or remaining asleep. In rare occasions patients may experience hallucinations.

Precautions While on Tramadol

Alcohol should not be consumed while taking as it will increase the effects of alcohol and any other SNC medicine that causes drowsiness (depressants). Among these SCN depressants are antihistamines and allergy or cold medications. Other medications such as anesthetics (including some dental), barbiturates, pain medicine or narcotics, sleep medicine, sedatives or tranquilizers, medicine for seizures and/or muscle relaxants are also advised against while on Tramadol. You should inform your doctor or dentist before any of the above mentioned medications are prescribed while taking Tramadol.

Certain side effects of Tramadol may include dizziness, drowsiness or experience lightheadedness. Reactions may be different in every individual and you should monitor your reactions to Tramadol. It is possible to feel dizzy, lightheaded or even faint if you stand up too quickly from a sitting or laying position so its recommended to stand up slowly into an upright position. It is also advised to be cautious while driving or operating machinery.

It is possible to experience some nausea or vomiting at the beginning of your Tramadol treatment. If such side effects do occur or if you feel lightheaded or dizzy, lying down for some time may help relieve these symptoms. Consult your doctor if these symptoms persist. Make sure your doctor is also informed of Tramadol use before you undergo any type of surgery or receive emergency care. Tramadol is none to increase the effects of substances commonly used in surgery and emergency care and can intensify your reaction to other drugs.

Contracted pupils and/or seizures (convulsions) are symptoms of a Tramadol overdose. If you or someone you know experience any signs of overdose, call an ambulance or seek emergency care immediately.

Tramadols Interaction with Other Drugs

Tramadol can lessen reflexes necessary for driving or operating any hazardous activity. Patients who use narcotics, hypnotics or alcohol are recommended to avoid Tramadol use while on these drugs. Severe breathing problems may occur after mixing Tramadol with alcohol or any other anesthetic agents.

Patients who currently suffer from epilepsy may run the risk of increased seizure especially if they use triciclic antidepressants like Elavil. Patients 65-75 years old are not recommended to change or adjust dosage if they are currently in a healthy state. Patients over 75 years of age, however, should be given a lower dosage or if the patient suffers from any type of liver or kidney dysfunction. Effects of Tramadol on children have not yet been established and therefore, should be consulted with a doctor before any Tramadol use. Tramadol should not be prescribed to people who are vulnerable to drug addiction or have hypersensitivity to opiate medications because Tramadol can be habit forming.

Known Tramadol Side Effects

Although Tramadol side effects are rare they may appear in certain individuals. Please consult your doctor if any of the following symptoms become severe or persist for more than a couple of days:

• Dizziness
• Headache
• Drowsiness
• Blurred vision
• Upset stomach
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea

Contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following symptoms:

• Fast heartbeat.
• Redness, swelling, and itching of the face.
• Numbness or tingling of the hands and feet.
• Difficulty in breathing.
• Changes in urination.
• Seizures.