Tramadol

Tramadol is a prescription medication used to treat moderate to moderately severe pain. It belongs to a class of drugs called opioid analgesics, which work by binding to opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord, thus altering the way your body senses pain.

In addition to its opioid properties, tramadol also inhibits the reuptake of certain neurotransmitters, namely serotonin and norepinephrine, which can further enhance its pain-relieving effects.

Tramadol is available in various formulations, including immediate-release tablets, extended-release tablets, and oral capsules. The dosage and frequency of tramadol administration depend on the severity of the pain and the individual’s response to the medication.

Common side effects of tramadol may include dizziness, drowsiness, headache, nausea, vomiting, constipation, and dry mouth. More serious side effects, although rare, can include respiratory depression (slow or shallow breathing), seizures, serotonin syndrome (a potentially life-threatening condition characterized by high levels of serotonin), and allergic reactions.