Tramadol in Common Questions and Answers

What does Tramadol treat?

It is used to relieve pain and so can treat literally thousands of conditions that cause pain. It is also used to treat Restless Leg Syndrome, Acid Reflux, GERD, and Fibromyalgia.

How do I take Tramadol?

Tramadol comes most commonly in tablets and extended-release tablets, but it is also available as an oral drop, a suppository, or an injection. Follow the directions that come with your medication carefully.

Take the tablets with a  full glass of water.

With drops, use only the dropper provided with your Tramadol.

Do not take more than 400 mg per day.

What are the side effects like?

Side effects are fairly uncommon. The side effects that do come up from time to time are constipation, dizziness, drowsiness, headache, nausea, and vomiting.

Can I break up my tablet?

Tramadol tablets are meant to be taken whole. Pharmacists do not recommend crushing or dividing tablets, so consult with your doctor first. It is unknown at this time whether crushing or dividing tablets poses a health risk.

Should I eat when I take Tramadol?

Food does not have an impact on Tramadol's effectiveness, so you may eat if you like, or not—it doesn't matter.

Some people find that eating with many medications makes thp less likely to become nausea.

What do I do if I forgot to take a dose?

This depends. If you are taking scheduled doses, ask yourself if you are closer to your next dose than you the dose you missed. If you are closer to your next dose, skip the one you missed. If you are closer to the missed dose, take it now.

Is Tramadol addictive?

Tramadol can be habit-forming. While it is less addictive than many other opioid painkillers, it may be dangerous for people with a history of addiction.

What is Tramadol withdrawal like?

Withdrawal symptoms can usually be avoided by gradually reducing your Tramadol dosage. Discontinuing all at once can cause the following sudden withdrawal symptoms: anxiety, diarrhea,  hallucinations, insomnia, nausea, pain, trpors, and sweating.

Will Tramadol show up in urine drug tests and screenings?

Tramadol is a synthetic opioid drug and will test positive in some opiates tests. However, showing that you have a prescription for Tramadol will clear you of any wrongdoing. More sophisticated drug screens that differentiate between opioid medications can be used.

One or two weeks after discontinuing Tramadol is enough to clear most drug tests.