Studies have shown that a drug by the name of pethidine is similar to Tramadol in its effects and efficiency, but it is thought that morphine is still the drug of choice for chronic, severe pain. For moderate pain, Tramadol is the preferred medication since there is less risk of respiratory depression and side effects than when other opioid medications are used.

The use of Tramadol does not normally result in dependence, although there have been some cases in which dependence has been reported. In cases in which dependence occurred, the symptoms were not as severe and the withdrawal syndromes were not as difficult to deal with as they are with other opioid medications.

Adverse reactions to Tramadol have been studied in clinical trials, with emphasis on the effects of higher dosages and more frequent administration of doses. Nausea, dizziness, somnolence, and overall weakness are some side effects that can occur when taking Tramadol. Patients reported that they experienced temporary depletion of strength and energy, as well as heavy perspiration, unusually dry mouth, and occasional vomiting. In addition, Tramadol often causes postural hypotension, so when rising from a bed or chair, patients must be very careful.

Studies have shown that anti-seizure medications are strongly affected by Tramadol. People who take carbamazepine as well as those with a medical history of epilepsy run a higher risk of experiencing seizures if they take Tramadol. These can vary in intensity, unconsciousness can result, and sometimes convulsions can occur. Because it has such an effect, Tramadol normally is not prescribed for these patients because they are likely to experience seizures more often and with greater severity.

MAO inhibitors and SSRI’s (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, also known as antidepressants) are other drugs that have been shown to interact with Tramadol. In the first instance, the contraindication is mentioned merely as a precaution; but in the case of SSRI drugs, Tramadol can cause serotonin syndrome, which is sometimes fatal.

It’s necessary to understand how SSRIs behave in order to see why Tramadol causes this syndrome. Tramadol actually prevents serotonin from being re-used; as a result, more serotonin is available and in higher concentrations in the brain. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that has a strong connection to depression; the presence of too little serotonin can lead to depressive moods. Serotonin syndrome, the presence of too much serotonin in the central nervous system, results from the interaction between these medications.

It’s not difficult to understand why you must be aware of such drug interactions. If Tramadol is prescribed for you, it will be essential that you understand the benefits and risks prior to taking it. Serotonin syndrome can be deadly, since symptoms come on quickly and consequences occur even more quickly. Symptoms might include tachycardia (abnormally fast heartbeat), shaking, sweating, mydriasis (dilated pupils, which is normally an indicator of shock), and abnormal reflexes.

If you have ingested Tramadol and and SSRI medication and any of the previously mentioned symptoms occur, or if even more serious symptoms occur, you must seek emergency medical attention right away. Elevated blood pressure, fever, extreme alertness, nervousness, and seizures are some of the more serious symptoms. Confusion, hallucinations, and strong headaches may also occur.

One thing you should keep in mind is that Tramadol can cause problems, and this is particularly true as it relates to the possibility of developing serotonin syndrome. Follow your physician’s instructions to the letter and make sure you let him/her know about any other medications that you are taking. Because adverse reactions can occur when any medication is taken, we defer to our physicians, who have the information and background to recommend the best course of treatment. Should you decide to take Tramadol, be sure to follow the instructions to the letter!