Tramadol

Tramadol is approved for the treatment of moderate to moderately severe pain. The drug comes in tablet form and is typically taken every four to six hours as needed. Because it works in a similar manner as morphine, the abuse potential is significant; tramadol may not be suitable for someone who has a history of drug or alcohol abuse. Possible side effects include headaches, drowsiness, and nausea.

What Is Tramadol?

Tramadol hydrochloride (Ultram®) is a prescription medication approved to treat moderate to moderately severe pain in adults. Currently, tramadol is not considered a controlled substance or a narcotic by the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). However, this medication has significant potential for abuse and is classified as a controlled substance in certain states.
 
(Click What Is Tramadol Used For? for more information, including possible off-label uses.)
 

Are There Side Effects?

Just like any medicine, tramadol can cause side effects. However, not everyone who takes the drug will experience problems. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or are easily treated by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.
 
Common side effects of tramadol include but are not limited to:
 
(Click Tramadol Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD
 
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