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Sounds Like: OOL.trum
Classification: Opioid
Controlled Substance Act Schedule: Schedule IV
Other names for Ultram
Tramadol, as Ultram is generically called, carries a fairly significant risk for abuse and dependency. Addiction to Ultram can cause behaviors that lead to overdose, and overdosing on Ultram can be fatal. The medication is often prescribed by a physician for legitimate needs, yet its potential for inducing addictive behavior can easily compromise a patient’s health in other ways.
Patients have been known to overuse the drug to the point of developing substance use disorder. Patients are typically instructed to adhere strictly to the prescription because deviating from how their physician tells them to use it is a commonly correlative factor with the development of substance use disorder. Family history is also typically a key consideration before prescribing Tramadol because a history of substance use disorder in the family indicates a likelihood that a patient may develop dependency on Ultram more easily also.
Anyone who overdoses on Ultram will manifest serious symptoms that threaten their lives. It is recommended that naloxone be administered to them in that situation. It’s also possible to overdose on Ultram and remain conscious with no symptoms, and in that case, it is recommended that they call a local poison control center immediately, which U.S. residents can reach most efficiently at 1.800.222.1222.
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In general, Tramadol is typically prescribed as a pain reliever. Taking it with food is also considered a reliable means to alleviate nausea. Tramadol is rarely prescribed by itself to treat chronic pain conditions, though, so in the case of arthritis, for example, it might be prescribed alongside long-acting opioid medications. Otherwise, it’s deployed against breakthrough pain.
Ultram is taken by mouth as directed every four to six hours based on how intermittent the pain is. It can also be taken in a liquid form, but this requires careful measurement to prevent overdose. As such, the liquid form is less likely to be the method chosen for a take-home prescription and more likely to be what a nursing staff would administer to a patient in pain. The maximal dosage per medical recommendation is 400 milligrams per day. For those over age 75, the maximum is dropped to 300 milligrams per day.
Impatience with waiting the 4-6 hours for next dose
Unsuccessful attempts to stop using the drug
Difficulty staying below maximal recommended, daily dosage
Use of Ultram despite without first feeling pain return
Tramadol and codeine are considered comparable painkillers of equal strength and similar effect.
A recent trend saw increased use of Tramadol specifically as an energy booster. A study published by a research team out of the University of New South Wales found this to be more likely consistent with dependency.