Drug name TRAMADOL General details A synthetic opioid, chemically similar to natural opioids.

Used to treat moderate to severe pain of heart attack, injury, surgery or cancer. Dependency is low as patients tend to only take for short periods of time. How taken Tablets Capsules Injection SR capsules and tablets Soluble tablets Powder in sachets Side effects Symptom Nausea/vomiting Dry mouth Tiredness/drowsiness Constipation Headache/dizziness Confusion/hallucinations Convulsions Wheezing/breathlessness Dosage Up to 400mg/day orally, or 600mg/day by injection. Duration of action Up to 4 hours.

Drug class Analgesic. Trade names Dromadol, Tramake, Zamadol, Zydol. Availability POM

considerations Occurrence Common Common Common Rare Rare Rare Rare Rare Be careful when the patient is getting up from the bench (because this drug can cause postural hypotension), allow the patient to move from supine, to sitting, to standing to allow time for the body to adjust. Dietary advice None.

Other drug interactions Antidepressants can increase risk of convulsions. Sedatives increase sedative effect further. Carbamazepine can reduce blood levels and effects of tramadol.

Special precautions Dependence can occur if patients take tramadol for long periods of time. Avoid during pregnancy and for children under 12. Avoid alcohol as increases the sedative effects.