Tramadol HCL is a drug prescribed for the relief of moderate to severe pain caused by injuries and chronic medical conditions. It can be used safely in many people, but there are several contraindications and potential drug interactions that must be taken into consideration. Patients should be aware of potential side effects, the possibility of allergic reaction, and the risk of overdose.
How Tramadol HCL Works
Tramadol HCL controls pain by changing the way nerves in the brain interpret pain signals. According to Micromedex, it also appears that it inhibits the reuptake of serotonin in the brain, further enhancing its analgesic effect. Tramadol HCL is an oral medication that comes in the form of 50 mg tablets. The maximum recommended dosage is 400 mg per day, but that dose may be lower in elderly patients, as well as those with liver and kidney diseases.
Contraindications
Several Tramadol HCL contraindications must be considered before the drug is prescribed. Tramadol HCL should not be used by patients who have had prior allergic reactions to narcotics or those who take drugs that depress the functions of the respiratory or nervous systems. It should not be prescribed to patients with severe breathing problems or a history of drug abuse and addiction. Tramadol HCL should be used with caution by people with kidney or liver disease, paralytic ileus, brain disorders, seizure disorders, heart problems, underactive thyroid, urination problems and adrenal gland problems.
Side Effects
Possible side effects of Tramadol HCL include weakness, dizziness, headache, drowsiness, nausea, lightheadedness, constipation and vomiting. Constipation can be prevented by drinking plenty of fluids, exercising regularly and consuming adequate amounts of dietary fiber. Patients should seek immediate medical attention in the event of shaking, vision changes, severe abdominal pain, extreme muscle stiffness or a change in the amount of urine production.
Drug Interactions
Tramadol HCL should not be taken with MAO inhibitors such as linezolid, moclobemide, procarbazine and phenelzine, as serious interactions can occur. The patient must cease taking MAO inhibitors 2 weeks before starting treatment with Tramadol HCL and should not resume use of MAO inhibitors until 2 weeks after Tramadol HCL treatment has ended. This drug cannot be taken with other drugs that increase serotonin levels such as tryptophan, antidepressants, triptans and St. John's Wart.
Warning
Use of Tramadol HCL can cause a serious condition known as "serotonin syndrome." According to the Mayo Clinic, serotonin syndrome is a dangerous drug reaction that occurs when too much serotonin is produced in the brain. Symptoms of serotonin syndrome include mood changes, loss of coordination, increased heart rate, unexplained fever, severe dizziness, muscle twitching, unusual restlessness, nausea, diarrhea and vomiting. Signs of allergic reaction to Tramadol HCL include itching, rash, swelling of the face and throat and difficulty breathing. Patients should seek immediate emergency medical care if any of these signs occur.
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