Ultram
® (
tramadol hydrochloride) is a prescription medication approved to treat moderate to moderately severe pain in adults. Currently, this medication is not considered a controlled substance or a narcotic by the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). However, Ultram has significant potential for abuse and is classified as a controlled substance in certain states.
Brand-name Ultram is made by Janssen Ortho, LLC, and is marketed by Ortho-McNeil Pharmaceutical, Inc. Generic versions are made by various manufacturers.
Ultram is classified as a "centrally acting opioid analgesic." This means that it works in the central nervous system (the brain and spinal cord), acts much like
morphine in the body, and relieves pain. Much like morphine, Ultram binds to certain opioid receptors in the body known as μ ("mu") receptors.
Ultram also works in a similar manner as some
antidepressant medications, by inhibiting the reuptake of certain brain chemicals (serotonin and norepinephrine). Serotonin and norepinephrine are two of several chemicals used to send messages from one nerve cell to another. As a message travels down a nerve, it causes the end of the cell to release serotonin or norepinephrine. The serotonin or norepinephrine enters the gap between the first nerve cell and the one next to it. When enough reaches the second nerve cell, it activates receptors on the cell and the message continues on its way. The first cell then quickly absorbs any serotonin or norepinephrine that remains in the gap between cells. This is called "reuptake."
Ultram has a significant potential for both psychological and physical dependence and abuse, similar to
morphine. Initially, this drug was marketed as a pain medication with little potential for abuse. However, healthcare providers quickly recognized that many of their patients had become addicted to it. Now, the prescribing information for this medication contains numerous warnings about the potential for Ultram abuse.
Because Ultram can be a desirable drug of abuse, people often try to buy it through illegal means, such as from foreign countries or online sources that do not require a prescription.
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When and How to Take Ultram
Some general considerations for those taking Ultram include the following:
- This medication comes in tablet form. It is taken by mouth, typically every four to six hours as needed for pain.
- In many cases, your healthcare provider may recommend that you start with a low dose and slowly work up to a higher dose.
- You can take Ultram with or without food. If the medication bothers your stomach, try taking it with a little food.
- Do not drink alcohol while taking this medication (see Tramadol and Alcohol).
- For the medication to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed. Do not increase your dose without your healthcare provider's approval. Also, do not suddenly stop taking Ultram, especially if you have taken it regularly for more than several weeks (see Tramadol Withdrawal).
The dose of Ultram your healthcare provider recommends will vary, depending on a number of factors, including:
- How you respond to Ultram
- Other medications you are taking
- Your age
- Other medical conditions you may have.
As is always the case, do not adjust your dose unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.
Just like any medicine, Ultram can cause side effects. However, not everyone who takes the drug will experience problems. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or are easily treated by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.
Common side effects of Ultram include but are not limited to:
(Click Ultram Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider?
You should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking Ultram if you have:
- Seizures or epilepsy
- Liver disease, such as cirrhosis, liver failure, or hepatitis
- Kidney disease, such as kidney failure (renal failure)
- A head injury or high intercranial pressure
- Severe abdominal (stomach) pain
- Lung disease of any sort
- A history of drug or alcohol dependence
- Any allergies, including allergies to foods, dyes, or preservatives.
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:
Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about any other medications you are taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
What If I Take an Overdose?
An overdose with Ultram can be dangerous. If you happen to take too much of this medication, seek immediate medical attention.
How Should Ultram Be Stored?
Ultram tablets should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep this and all other medications out of the reach of children. Because Ultram can be a desirable drug of abuse, make sure to keep it in a safe place.
What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose?
This medication is often prescribed "as needed," which means that you do not need to take a dose if you do not feel pain. If you forget to take a dose of Ultram and notice significant pain, take your missed dose right away. However, make sure to wait the recommended time before the next dose.
Generic Availability of Ultram
