Ultram - an overview
Ultram, active ingredient tramadol, is a medication that is prescribed to help ease pain that is moderate to severe. It works within the brain to block the signals of pain and allow a general feeling of euphoria in patients. Ultram acts much like narcotic analgesics, but it is not a narcotic. It can be effective at easing many different kinds of pain and has been found to be as effective as the medication Tylenol 3, which is codeine and acetaminophen, at treating those that have chronic joint, cancer or lower back pain.
Uses
There are many different medications available to manage pain, however, not many of them have proven to be as non-addictive and effective at treating pain that is chronic or long term as the medication called Ultram. This medication has been approved by the FDA since 1998 and has become more and more popular for the unique ability to ease pain.
What it does
Ultram (Tramadol) is a synthetic, or manmade pain reliever. The exact way it works is not known, but it is clear that it acts much like morphine does. Tramadol binds to opioid receptors in the brain that work to transmit feelings of pain to the rest of the body. Tramadol is like other narcotics that treat pain in that it has the potential for abuse. Since this medication is not an NSAID, it does not carry the increased risk for stomach ulcers or bleeding.
Secondary Effects
Seek emergency medical attention if you notice any symptoms of allergic reaction that includes: trouble breathing, hives, or swelling of the throat, face, tongue and lips.
Quit taking tramadol and contact your health care professional immediately if you notice any serious secondary effects that include:
- Hallucinations, agitation, rapid heart beat, or overactive reflexes
- Fever, vomiting, diarrhea, nausea
- Fainting, or loss of coordination
- Convulsions
- Weak pulse or shallow breathing
- Rash that is blistering, red or peeling
Ultram Dosage
You should take this medication exactly as your doctor prescribes it to you. Never take it in higher doses or for longer than your doctor recommends. Follow the prescription directions exactly and be sure to talk to your health care provider if it no longer seems effective at treating pain.
You can take this medication on a full or empty stomach, but you should take it the same every time you take it.
You should not break, chew or crush these tablets. They are meant to be swallowed whole, as breaking them can cause too much of the medication to go into your system at once.
Potential Interactions
Some substances, such as Carbamazepine can reduce how effective tramadol is by increasing how it is inactive in your body. Quinidine can reduce how inactive tramadol is, which can increase the strength of tramadol by an estimated 50 - 60%. Taking tramadol with MAOI or SSRIs can cause severe secondary effects that include serotonin syndrome or seizures.
Ultram has the potential to increase depression of the respiratory and CNS systems when taken with anesthetics, narcotics, tranquilizers, alcohol or sedative hypnotics.
