Tramadol is the common name for tramadol hydrochloride. It is an opioid derivative like morphine and methadone. In contrast to these two molecules, this drug in many countries may be sold without the benefit of a doctor’s prescription specifically for narcotic drugs, which is considerably more difficult to obtain, but with a conventional prescription for a single order. It is an analgesic, which operates centrally, and it is primarily utilized to treat pain in a patient if the pain is in the moderate to severe range. Though it is a pain reliever, its prolonged usage can turn into a serious and may lead one to find substance abuse treatment programs in Los Angeles, etc.
Tramadol is a synthetic opioid and seems to manifest actions at the u-opioid receptor and the serotonergic noradrenergic systems. It was first patented and manufactured by the German pharmaceutical corporation Grunenthal GmbH in the 1970s. It was marketed around the world under the tradename Tramal. Grunenthal has also licensed the product to several other pharmaceutical companies around the world with different names such as Ultram, Medtrap, and Ryzolt.
In the 1950s, Grunenthal GmbH created and marketed the infamous drug Thalidomide, also known as Softenon and Contergan. This pharmaceutical was responsible for a wide range of teratogenic deformities in infants born after their mothers ingested the drug prior to the third trimester of their pregnancies.
Tramadol has a fairly close chemical relative, which is also in common clinical use and is known as tapentadol, which was also developed by Grunenthal GmbH.
Tramadol is a pharmaceutical drug and has been used for acute and chronic pain and pain induced by surgical and diagnostic procedures, which are particularly painful. It is utilized to treat pain that ranges from moderate to severe and many forms of neuralgia, including trigeminal neuralgia. It has been suggested that it could be effective in alleviating the symptoms of depression and anxiety because of its interaction with noradrenaline and serotonin, the involvement of which appear to play a part in its ability in relieving the perception of extreme pain. However, health professionals have not yet endorsed its use on a large scale for such issues.
Tramadol is usually marketed as a hydrochloric salt and is available both as an intravenous and/or intramuscular injection and oral preparations. It is also available in conjunction with paracetamol (acetaminophen). In particular, it is available in the following forms:
- Capsules
- Tablets
- Extended release tablets
- Suppositories
- Effervescent pills and powders
- Ampoules of sterile solutions for subcutaneous injection, both intramuscular and intravenous
- Powder specifically compounded for mixing with other powders
- Liquids for oral and sublingual administration
It has a slightly bitter taste, which is typical of opioids, but it is much less pronounced than that found in morphine and codeine. The oral and sublingual tablets and liquid preparations are available with an artificial flavor added. Its relative effectiveness is generally similar to that of codeine, and like codeine, this drug is metabolized in the liver.
Though tramadol is viewed as the lesser of narcotic-like pain relievers, its withdrawal symptoms last up to twice as long as other opioids. With any prescription pain reliever, it is best to let a parent, friend, or guardian be aware that you are taking these medications. The side effects and withdrawal symptoms can become overwhelming and can lead to abuse.