Ultram

What is Ultram?

Ultram, known under the generic name of tramadol, is a drug which is effective for relieving moderate to severe chronic pain.

What is the most important information I should know about Ultram?

Do not use Ultram in case you have a history of alcohol or drug addiction.

Taking Ultram may result in seizures (convulsions) if you have ever had head injury, a metabolic disorder or seizures. Avoid using Ultram if you are taking muscle relaxers, antidepressants or any medicine for nausea and vomiting.

Remember that Ultram can be habit-forming, so do not give your drug to other people. Keep Ultram in a safe place where nobody can reach it.

In some cases Ultram may cause side effects that impair your reactions and thinking. Be careful when you drive or operate heavy machinery, if you are under Ultram. It is recommended that you do not stop using Ultram as soon as you notice withdrawal symptoms, such as breathing problems, sweating, nausea, anxiety, chills, trouble sleeping, tremors, diarrhea or hallucinations.

Ultram is meant to be administered by mouth only. Do not crush the pill, inhale the powder, dilute the drug in liquid or inject into the body in order to prevent serious side effects.

Ultram shouldn't be mixed with drugs for depression or anxiety, alcohol, narcotic pain drugs, sedatives or tranquilizers (such as Valium), medications for mental illness (such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder), and street drugs.

Keep in mind that the risk of seizure is higher if you

• have a history of epilepsy or other seizure disorder;
• have a history of head injury;
• have a history of drug or alcohol addiction;
• suffer from a metabolic disorder;
• are currently taking antidepressants, muscle relaxer, or drug for nausea and vomiting.

Talk to your health care provider and adjust your dose before starting treatment with Ultram if you have a history of suicide attempt, mental disorder or depression; suffer from liver disease, stomach disorder or kidney disease; or if you are allergic to any drug.

FDA pregnancy category C. Ultram can be harmful for the fetus. The medication may cause serious or even fatal side effects in an inborn baby if the mother uses Ultram during her pregnancy or labor. If you are pregnant or going to become one, see your doctor beforehand.

Do not take Ultram in case you are breastfeeding.

Ultram wasn't approved for use in children younger than 18.

How should I take Ultram?

Take Ultram with or without food, in the same way day by day. Do not take more than 300mg of Ultram per day. Swallow the pill whole and do not crush it.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose asap. If it is almost time for your next dose, you should skip the missed one and return to your regular schedule. Never take an extra dose to catch up.

What happens if I overdose?

Ultram overdosage may result in fatal side effects. In case overdosage is suspected, you should seek immediate medical attention.

The symptoms of overdosage include extreme weakness, lightheadedness, cold or clammy skin, drowsiness, shallow breathing, fainting, slow heartbeat, and coma.