Tramadol is a medication prescribed to manage Moderate to Severe Pain. It works by altering how your brain and nervous system react to discomfort.
It belongs to a class of drugs called opioids. This pain medication helps alleviate pain by attaching itself to opioid receptors in your brain and spinal cord, relieving you of discomfort.
What is Tramadol?
Tramadol is an opioid analgesic medication prescribed to relieve pain after surgery or injuries.
Osteoarthritis (OA), a condition that causes joint pain and stiffness, can also be treated with this drug. OA can make physical activities such as walking and bending more challenging.
Tramadol can become addictive for those who take it regularly for an extended period, leading to withdrawal symptoms when they stop using it – this could be potentially dangerous.
Tramadol should not be taken if you have ever had a seizure; an infection in your brain or spine; difficulty urinating; thoughts of harming yourself or suicide attempts; kidney or liver issues; or are allergic to opioids.
If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, discuss the potential risks and benefits of tramadol during pregnancy with your healthcare provider. This medication may slightly increase the risk of birth defects if taken during the first two months or in high doses near your expected delivery date.
Tramadol may cause breathing problems (shallow breathing, taking small, rapid breaths). This could be life-threatening if you have asthma or other breathing difficulties. Your doctor will monitor you carefully for these side effects; if any develop, contact your healthcare provider right away.
How Does Tramadol Work in Your System?
Tramadol is an opioid painkiller that works by binding to opioid receptors in the brain to block pain signals from reaching your nerves. Additionally, it increases levels of two hormones essential for moderate to moderately pain perception: serotonin and norepinephrine.
Tramadol can linger in your system for hours or even days after it has been injected, smoked or snorted. It takes time for its metabolites to leave your body, which explains why it may show up on drug tests and hair follicle tests some time after you’ve used it.
Tramadol can last in your system for 12 to 24 hours depending on the type, amount and frequency. Instant-release tramadol begins working within 30-60 minutes of administration and has less buildup in your system than extended-release, which takes more time to eliminate from your body.
How quickly you can detox from tramadol depends on its dosage and whether or not you have a history of substance abuse. Abusers of tramadol, especially those who combine it with cocaine or benzodiazepines, may face greater difficulty eliminating it from their systems. They may require more intensive treatment such as inpatient or outpatient rehabilitation or counseling in order to achieve lasting abstinence.
