In general, it is a drug indicated to control severe pain included in the second step, that is, of the pharmacological strategy frequently followed by doctors specialized in treating pain.

Depending on the concentration and the rate of release of the medication, its effect will be noticed shortly after consuming it. Now, since it is a medication administered at the physician’s discretion, it is appropriate to know its impact and protocol of use. 

What is Tramadol used for? Properties

  • Formula: C16H25NO2
  • Trade name : Adolonta, Conzip, Zaldiar, Diliban, Durela, Ralivia, Ryzolt, Ultracet, Ultram, Zytram XL, Tramal
  • Half-life: 5–7 hours
  • Metabolism: Hepatic
  • Bioavailability: 68–72% Increases with repeated doses
  • Excretion: Renal
  • Peso mol .: 263,38 g / mol

Like morphine, Tramadol decreases the motor and sensory responses of the spinal nociceptive system by spinal and supraspinal action. 

However, it is estimated that its analgesic potential is ten times lower than morphine. Its side effects are more minor on the respiratory and cardiovascular systems, although prolonged administration can cause dependence. 

Therefore, it is convenient to know its properties and benefits, as explained below.

Properties of Tramadol

  • Regarding its pharmacodynamic properties, it is a centrally acting analgesic.
  • It is a pure agonist opioid.
  • Its pharmacokinetic properties are rapidly and almost completely absorbed after oral administration.
  • In higher concentrations, it is usually prolonged-release because it prolongs the effect of its active ingredient to control continuous pain of greater intensity.  

Health Benefits of Tramadol

Its benefits include the following:

  • Relieves moderate to moderately severe pain. It is an opioid-type pain reliever that acts on specific nerve cells in the spinal cord and brain and works by changing the way the brain and nervous system respond to pain.
  • It is indicated for neuropathic pain. It is shown in treating discomfort caused by sciatica, osteoarthritis, and chronic low back pain. 
  • It can be effective against premature ejaculation. Dr. Sagrario Martín-Aragón, from the Faculty of Pharmacy of the Complutense University of Madrid, comments that the mechanism of action of Tramadol could reduce the sensitivity of the penis. With the inhibition of serotonin reuptake, ejaculation would be delayed. 
  • To treat some cases of anxiety and depression. It is a weak agonist at the mu (µ) opioid receptor. Its usefulness is suggested for treating some forms of anxiety and depression, in which elements of social loss or betrayal are involved.  

When and how to use Tramadol?

Under strict medical prescription, Tramadol can take advantage of its sedative effect on moderate to moderately severe pain. Therefore, people who need this medicine for ongoing pain relief should only use extended-release tablets or capsules. 

Tramadol Hydrochloride, its active ingredient, is present in many medications, and health specialists may prescribe it under different trade names: Adolonta, Dollar, Gelotradol, Toner, Traditional Retard, Zytram, and indifferent presentations: capsules, effervescent tablets, drops, injections, and indifferent concentrations (50, 100, 150, 200 mg) 

The doctor will probably prescribe a low initial dose of Tramadol and gradually increase the amount of medicine if necessary. In any case, there are some basic recommendations on how to take Tramadol that is listed below:

  • Do not exceed the indicated dose. 
  • Its use must be reduced or eliminated progressively.
  • Other opioid medications should not be taken with Tramadol.
  • The capsule or tablet must be swallowed whole to avoid exposure to a potentially fatal dose. So, there is no need to crush, chew, break, open, or dissolve it.

Advantages of Tramadol

  • It is effective in treating neuropathic pain.
  • Useful in cases of pain caused by sciatica and osteoarthritis.
  • It can have a prolonged effect on continuous pain.
  • Some specialists recommend it to control premature ejaculation.
  • Its ability to treat some cases of anxiety and depression is being studied.
  • There are many quality commercial presentations of Tramadol. 

Tramadol Disadvantages

  • It can be addictive, mainly when used for a long time.
  • If Tramadol is stopped suddenly, you may experience withdrawal symptoms.
  • It can cause confusion, dizziness, and other adverse effects, especially in the first few shots.

Risks of consuming Tramadol

The use of Tramadol cannot be stopped without first talking to a doctor. If you stop taking Tramadol suddenly, withdrawal symptoms may occur, such as panic, sweating, difficulty falling asleep, runny nose, sneezing, pain, chills, nausea, diarrhea, and in some cases, hallucinations.

On the other hand, it can have constipation as a side effect, so increasing fluid intake and fiber supplements are necessary.

Also, note that Tramadol should not be administered to children under 12 years of age or anyone under 18. It is also not advisable to do it during pregnancy since the withdrawal symptoms can endanger the baby’s life.

In addition, there can be fatal risks if alcohol or other drugs that cause drowsiness or slowed breathing are used while taking Tramadol.

Although there are no conclusive results, researchers from the University of Granada published a first randomized clinical trial on the effects of Tramadol on sports and cognitive performance. They comment that drowsiness and reduced ability to concentrate or to concentrate react stand out before stimuli are among its side effects.