Euphoric or Dysphoric?

Tramadol has been approved by the FDA, classified in the category of analgesics or opioid agonists. This medication affects the central nervous system; it is completely synthetic and doesn’t structurally resemble opiate drugs. Because it gives similar effects like vertigo, nausea, and somnolence, it has been tied to opioids. Tramadol is thought to have a less potent effect than the opioid drugs, and this includes its adverse and allergic reactions.

Tramadol is taken orally and is quickly absorbed into the blood system, with a peak concentration approximately 120 minutes after it is taken. Tramadol is removed from the body via urine, which is why previous kidney disease can lead to improper excretion of the drug and unexpected side effects. Tramadol is broken down by the liver, and as a result, it is not advised for those with liver disease. Tramadol is contraindicated for children under the age of 18, and elderly patients must be closely monitored.

Tramadol is most commonly prescribed for back pain, chronic pain due to cancer, and pain resulting from nerve damage. This medication is used for a wide array of pain management programs and is typically used for long-term pain. Slowly reducing the amount of the drug is recommended if any of the following side-effects occur — anxiety, lethargy, mood swings and dizziness. Patients experiencing weakness, headaches, and agitation should be closely monitored, too, along with anyone who complains of nausea, vomiting, chills, or dryness of the mouth. The drug Tramadol has to be prescribed with a physician’s care and supervision, and any of these symptoms is justification for discontinuing its treatment use, if needed.

Additional severe outcomes compel a cautious examination of Tramadol and the dose used by the patient. Therefore, it is necessary to review the treatment plan, and possibly even reduce the dose of Tramadol to nil if the patient has suffered from trouble breathing, seizures, rashes, swelling or hallucinations. This also occurs when people are brought to hospital suffering a possible overdose, displaying symptoms such as loss of consciousness (even to the point of coma), mycosis accompanied by no eye reflex, weakened pulse and shallow respiration. Due to its effects on the central nervous system, overdosing on Tramadol can be deadly, as it can interfere with both the cardiac and respiratory systems. On many occasions, fast action has been required to save the patient, and they then face a difficult road to recovery.

Scientific studies have worked to uncover the potential side effects of Tramadol, and a wide range of symptoms were found. Side effects included those mentioned above, as well as widening of blood vessels, disorientation, poor coordination, and unprompted elation. A rare side effect noted is altered mental status, including seizures and/or cognitive impairment, resulting from high doses of Tramadol. Doctors are becoming more alert to the dangers of ischemia associated with large doses of Tramadol, and the possibility of pulmonary edema in patients who overdose. These findings reinforce the fact that using Tramadol is a serious matter, and patients should be guided by their doctors’ recommendations.

In terms of how likely it is to induce dependence, this is still a controversial topic that generates much debate. Tests have shown that when Tramadol is taken for extended periods or in high doses it may lead to a dependence on the drug. Although symptoms of withdrawal are of less concern than with some narcotic drugs, they are still serious and in some cases may be fatal. Females taking high doses of Tramadol have been shown to be more susceptible to becoming dependent on the drug, as well as reporting seizures, suffering from strong bouts of nausea and other intense side effects. Yet another study worthy of interest showed that Tramadal could be substituted for another narcotic type drug, making the transition smoother. As mentioned earlier, there is still much debate about how addictive this drug is.

In comparison to morphine, Tramadol is about a tenth as strong and is considered a controlled substance in certain countries. Do not confuse this drug with narcotics and only take as prescribed. The Internet provides a wealth of knowledge when it comes to such topics, but your research should not stop there. If you are considering a prolonged treatment plan involving Tramadol, it is very important to seek a doctor’s advice and guidance.

Leave a comment