Tramadol and Seizures

Tramadol (Ultram) is known to cause seizures. Clinical studies have shown that less than 1 percent of people experience seizures. Tramadol may increase the risk in people who have certain health conditions (such as epilepsy or a brain infection) or those who are taking certain medications (such as antipsychotics or MAOIs). If you experience seizures while taking tramadol, contact your healthcare provider.

Does Tramadol Cause Seizures?

Tramadol hydrochloride (Ultram®) is a prescription pain medication. One of the potential side effects of this drug is seizures. Some people may be at a greater risk for seizures with tramadol than others. Overall, clinical studies indicate that less than 1 percent of people taking the drug experience this problem.
 

Risk of Seizures With Tramadol

Seizures have occurred in people taking a normal tramadol dosage. However, they appear to be most common in people taking high doses, such as people who have a problem with tramadol abuse. Other people who may be at a high risk for seizures with tramadol include people who:
 
  • Have epilepsy
  • Have had seizures in the past
  • Have head trauma
  • Are withdrawing ("detoxing") from drugs or alcohol
  • Have a brain or spinal infection.
     
Medications can also increase the risk of seizures due to tramadol. Such medications include but are not limited to:
 
 
 
 
 

 

 

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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;
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