Detailed Drug Information:

DRUG CLASS AND MECHANISM: Tramadol is an effective pain reliever(analgesic). Its mode of action resembles that of narcotics, but it hassignificantly less potential for abuse and addiction than the narcotics.Tramadol is as effective as narcotics in relieving pain but does notdepress respiration, a side effect of most narcotics. Tramadol is not anonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID), and does not have theincreased risk of stomach ulceration and internal bleeding that can occurwith the use of NSAIDs.

PREPARATIONS: Tablet: 50mg.

STORAGE: Store at room temperature, sealed container.

PRESCRIBED FOR: Tramadol is used in the management of moderateto moderately severe pain.

DOSING: May be taken with or without food.

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tramadol can impair thinking and the physicalabilities required for driving or operating machinery. Tramadol should beavoided in patients intoxicated with alcohol, hypnotics, and narcotics.Large doses of tramadol administered with alcohol or anesthetic agents canimpair breathing. Tramadol can increase the risk of seizure in epilepticpatients, especially with simultaneous use of tricyclic antidepressants,such as Elavil. No dosage adjustment or reduction is necessary in healthyelderly patients 65-75 years of age. Patients over the age of 75 years,and those with liver and kidney dysfunction may need lower dosages. Thesafety of tramadol in children has not been established. Tramadol mayrarely be habit forming. Tramadol should be avoided in patients with ahistory of opiate addiction or hypersensitivity to opiate medications.

PREGNANCY: The safety of tramadol during pregnancy has not beenestablished.

NURSING MOTHERS: The safety of tramadol in nursing mothers hasnot been established.

SIDE EFFECTS: Tramadol is generally well tolerated and sideeffects are usually transient. Commonly reported side effects includenausea, constipation, dizziness, headache, drowsiness, and vomiting. Lesscommonly reported side effects include itching, sweating, dry mouth,diarrhea, rash, visual disturbances, and vertigo.