Tramadol Main Page

 

What is Tramadol?

 

Tramadol, which is the generic form of Ultram, is an analgesic that is utilized in the treatment and prevention of pain.

Chemical Information

Tramadol hydrochloride's molecular weight is 299.8. A crystalline, bitter powder that is white and odorless is what Tramadol hydrochloride is composed of. With a pKa reading at 9.41, it dissolves easily in water as well as ethanol. Its n-octanol/H2O logP coefficient reading is 1.35 with a pH level of 7. Colored white, there is 50 milligrams of Tramadol hydrochloride in Ultram tablets. Corn starch, hypromellose, lactose,magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, polyethylene glycol, polysorbate 80, sodium starch glycolate, titanium dioxide and wax are the inactive ingredients included in the tablet.

Drug Interactions

Studies have shown that CYP3A4-mediated metabolism of other drugs is unlikely to be inhibited by Tramadol (Ultram) when Tramadol (Ultram) is taken concurrently at therapeutic doses. It does not appear that Tramadol (Ultram) induces its own metabolism in humans, since observed maximal plasma concentrations after multiple oral doses are higher than expected based on single-dose data. Through tests with animals, it has been found that Tramadol (Ultram) is a gentle inducer of certain drug metabolism channels.

Storage

Tramadol should be stored at 25 degrees C, excursions can be made to 15-30 degrees C (59-86 degrees F).

Use With Carbamazepine

Patients who take Carbamazepine may notice that Ultram produces much less of an analgesic effect. Using Ultram and Carbamazepine concurrently is contraindicated because Carbamazepine increases the metabolism of Tramadol. This is also true because of the risk of seizure that is linked to Tramadol.

Usage With Quinidine

CYP2D6 metabolizes Ultram or Tramadol to MI. Because Quinidine is a selective inhibitor of that isoenzyme, taking Quinidine and Ultram concurrently causes increased concentrations of Tramadol (Ultram) and reduced concentrations of M1. It is not known what the clinical consequences are of these findings. Analysis of in vitro drug interaction in human liver microsomes shows no effect on Quinidine metabolism as far as Tramadol (Ultram) is concerned.

Use With Inhibitors of CYP2D6

Studies have revealed that taking Tramadol concurrently with inhibitors of CYP2D6 such as fluoxetine, paroxetine, and amitriptyline could result in some inhibition of the metabolism of Tramadol (Ultram).

Use With Cimetidine

Taking Ultram concurrently with Cimetidine does not seem to produce clinically significant changes in Tramadol (Ultram) pharmacokinetics. Thus, it is not advised to modify the dose instructions for Ultram.

Use With MAO Inhibitors

Because of interference with detoxification mechanisms, interactions with MAO Inhibitors have been reported for some centrally acting drugs (see WARNINGS, Use With MAO Inhibitors).

Use With Digoxin and Warfarin

Since this drug has come to market, there have been rare reports of Digoxin toxicity and alteration of Warfarin effect, including elevation of prothrombin times.

Use In Children

There is no precise information in regards to age and how Tramadol/Ultram affects youth under 16 years old.

Precautions Involving the Use of Tramadol

It is important to understand that Tramadol can be habit forming because it is a narcotic. It is critical that you follow your doctor's instructions completely when taking this drug. Do not exceed the dosage prescribed by your doctor. Also you should let your doctor know if you have other health problems like kidney or liver ailments. Tramadol can cause you to fall asleep at the wheel, so do not drive a car before you can determine if you are prone to this side effect. Also, when using Tramadol you should never consume any liquor. Let your physician know about all drugs or treatments you are using, including the herb, Saint John's Wort that acts in much the same way as an MAO inhibitor.

Tramadol is demonstrated to work well to alleviate pain in those who use it. Although it does seem to cause some side effects such as nervousness, sweating, chills, dry mouth, dizziness, itching, rashes, changes in mood, heartburn, constipation, headache, sleepiness, etc., normally these are not bothersome enough to make people stop taking this medication. If your doctor has prescribed or you are thinking about taking Tramadol, it is important to follow directions completely.

 

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