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Effects of Tramadol | 04th April, 2018

Tramadol is a synthetic opioid analgesic (painkiller) that is frequently prescribed to manage moderate to severe levels of pain—such as that experienced after surgery or in chronic conditions like arthritis. It is commonly marketed under one of its brand names, Ultram.
 
People who experience more chronic types of pain may be prescribed an extended-release version of tramadol, which allows them to experience longer lasting pain relief without needing to take the medication as frequently.
 
This drug – while somewhat a typical with its activity as an opioid – still elicits its narcotic properties via the brains opioid receptors. Similar to other drugs in this class of substances, some people may be at risk for addiction if they:
 
  • Use it for a long period of time.
  • Take larger doses than recommended.
  • Take it more frequently than has been prescribed.
  • Take it for non-medical purposes.
  • Take it concurrently with other substances, such as alcohol, sedatives or other painkillers.
Addiction is characterized by:
 
  • Compulsive drug seeking behavior.
  • An inability to limit use on ones own.
  • Difficulty functioning without the drug.
 
First, like heroin, codeine, and all other opiate analgesics, tramadol binds to opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord. These receptors are responsible for both the pain-relieving effects that patients need and, at higher doses, the euphoric effects that abusers seek.
 
Because tramadol is much less potent than other commonly abused narcotics when it is injected, it was thought to be a safe alternative to other painkillers like morphine. However, when taken by mouth, tramadol is converted into another compound called O-desmethyltramadol, which is a much more potent activator of opioid receptors than tramadol itself. As a result, users may get high on tramadol, even if that was not their intention when they first started taking the drug.
 
Short-term effects of tramadol include:
 
Lack of pain. Tramadol is a painkiller; it modifies the transmission of pain signals to the brain so that you experience less intense pain while you are taking it.
Elated mood. Tramadol works in a similar way to many antidepressant medications in that it increases the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in your brain. This may lead to feelings of euphoria and well-being. For some individuals, these pleasant symptoms serve to reinforce a pattern of continued tramadol use.
Anxiety reduction. Tramadol helps some users feel relaxed and calm because of the way it changes brain chemistry.
These symptoms and signs can contribute to a developing tramadol addiction, especially if the individual in question is concurrently experiencing depression and/or anxiety issues.
 
 
Some potential side effects of tramadol include:
 
  • Dizziness.
  • Difficulty falling asleep.
  • Headache.
  • Constipation.
  • Diarrhea.
  • Loss of appetite.
  • Sweating.
  • Dry mouth.
  • Tremulousness.
  • Nausea.
 
Other serious reported side effects that require medical attention include:
 
  • Fever.
  • Hives, blisters, or rash.
  • Difficulty swallowing or breathing.
  • Hallucinations.
  • Agitation.
  • Lack of coordination.
  • Rapid heartbeat.
 
Long-Term Effects of Tramadol
 
  • Tolerance: As tramadol works by changing a persons brain chemistry, there is a risk of developing tolerance to this drug. As the body adapts to tramadols presence, users need larger doses of the drug to feel its painkilling and euphoric effects.
  • Physical dependence: Along with tolerance, many users experience physical dependence if they use tramadol for a long period of time. Their bodies adapt to the presence of the drug, and soon require tramadol in order to function properly. If a dependent individual stops taking tramadol, they may become physically ill due to the onset of a withdrawal syndrome.
  • Cognitive decline: Many opioid drugs are associated with cognitive impairment and slowed reaction times. Complex tasks may become more difficult with long-term use of tramadol, and users may present a danger to themselves or others when driving.
 
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Mawuena Workartey/Ghanahospitals.org

     
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