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IMPORTANT NOTE:
This information is not intended to replace the knowledge and skills of a qualified healthcare provider. While the following can be a valuable resource, this drug may not be safe or effective for everyone. You should always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before taking any prescription medication.
TRAMADOL – ORAL (TRAH-muh-dall)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Ultram
USES:
This is used to relieve moderate to moderately severe pain. It can also treat pain caused by surgery and chronic conditions such as cancer or joint pain. It is sometimes prescribed for other uses; contact your doctor for more details.
HOW TO USE:
Tramadol is taken by mouth, usually every four to six hours, as needed. It is vital that you only take this medication as prescribed. Never increase your dose or take it more often then prescribed by your doctor, to avoid this medication from becoming habit forming. If you have used this medication for a long period of time do not suddenly stop taking it without your doctor’s approval. It is also a possibility that you will need your dosage adjusted if you have used it for a long period of time. Always consult your doctor if this medication stops working as well.
SIDE EFFECTS:
Side effect are rare with this medication, however they do occur. While these side effects may not need medical attention contact your doctor if they persist or become bothersome. These side effects include: dizziness, weakness, in-coordination, nausea or vomiting, stomach upset, constipation, headache, drowsiness, anxiety, irritability, dry mouth, or increased sweating. If you experience any of these symptoms, notify your doctor immediately, they include: chest pain, rapid heart rate, skin rash or itching, mental confusion, disorientation, seizures, tingling of the hands or feet, trouble breathing. In the rare event that you suffer an allergic reaction, seek emergency medical attention immediately. Symptoms of this type of reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, and breathing trouble. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor.
PRECAUTIONS:
It is vital to always tell your doctor your entire medical history, especially if you have a history of: kidney disease, liver disease, seizure disorder, lung disease, history of drug or alcohol dependency, or any allergies you may have. With this medication it is recommended to limit the amount of alcohol you consume because it may add to the dizziness or drowsiness side effects caused by this medication. It is recommended to use caution when driving or doing any activity that requires mental alertness, because this medication may make you drowsy. Women who are pregnant need to discuss all of the risks and the benefits of this medication before taking it, and only when expressly needed. Women who are nursing should consult their doctor before breast-feeding because this medication is excreted into breast milk, and the effects of nursing an infant are not known.
DRUG INTERACTIONS:
Always tell your doctor about all of the medications you are using both prescription and non-prescription, especially if you are taking: carbamazepine, narcotic pain relievers (e.g., codeine), drugs used to aid sleep, antidepressants (e.g., SSRI-types such as fluoxetine or fluvoxamine), MAO inhibitors (e.g., furazolidone, linezolid, phenelzine, procarbazine, selegiline, tranylcypromine), psychiatric medicine (e.g., nefazodone), "triptan"-type drugs, anti-anxiety drugs (e.g., diazepam), sibutramine; also, report use of certain antihistamines (e.g., diphenhydramine) which are also present in many cough-and-cold products. Never stop or start any medication without first seeking approval from your doctor.
OVERDOSE:
Contact your local emergency room or poison control center if an overdose is suspected Symptoms of overdose may include: cold and clammy skin, low body temperature, slowed breathing, slowed heartbeat, drowsiness, dizziness, lightheadedness, deep sleep, loss of consciousness, or seizures.
NOTES:
Never share prescription medication with others
MISSED DOSE:
In the event that you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If you do not remember before it is close to time to take your next dose, then simply skip it and resume taking as scheduled. It is important never to “double-up” on this medication
STORAGE:
It is important to store at room temperature away from moisture and sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom. As always keep all medication out of the reach of children. Always dispose of expired medications.
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January 27th, 2009 - 
