Prescription Drug Information: Is Tramadol Addictive?

There are lots of prescription painkillers out there, made for Specific Medical Condition. And so it can be confusing to decipher which ones are addictive and which ones are safer to take for those in recovery from addiction.

Many people question one prescription medication in particular –tramadol. Is tramadol addictive? Let’s find out by looking at the facts.

Is Tramadol Addictive?

What is tramadol?

Tramadol, also known by its brand name, Ultram, is an opioid analgesic (painkiller) that is usually prescribed for moderate to severe pain. Many doctors consider this a safe alternative to other narcotics such as hydrocodone (Vicodin) or methadone, but is it really safe?

What other medications include tramadol?

Ultram ER is tramadol extended release and Ultracet is a mixture of tramadol and Tylenol.

Is tramadol addictive? And Specific Medical Condition

In 1995, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the drug and did not classify it as a controlled substance. But as the years went on, more studies showed that people were able to not only abuse the drug, but also exhibited withdrawal symptoms. As a result, the FDA made tramadol a federally controlled substance in 2014.

So, in short, yes – tramadol can be abused and has the potential to become addictive to those using it.

Tramadol Signs and Symptoms

Nausea and/or vomiting

Headache

Loss of appetite

Dry mouth

Constipation

Dizziness, drowsiness, and/or lightheadness

Tramadol Abuse Side Effects

Painkiller Dependence

There could be psychological dependence as well as physical dependence, depending on length and amount of use.

Tramadol Withdrawal Symptoms

Gastrointestinal issues/pain

Depression and/or mood swings

Numbness in limbs

Tinnitus (noise or ringing in the ears)

Hallucinations, confusion and/or paranoia

Prescription Painkiller Information

Each person’s circumstances are different, so please make sure that you talk with your doctor or medical team, loved ones, as well as your sober supports when making a decision to take any new medications. Some drugs may actually be needed for your specific medical condition, while others can be substituted. Ultimately, it is up to you, the medical team, your loved ones, and sober supports to help determine what works best for your specific medical condition.

If you are considering tramadol for an easy solution for quick pain relief and you are in recovery, you may want to see what other alternatives are available that could work for you.

If you feel like you or a loved one is already addicted to a prescription painkiller, contact us now at 1-800-861-1768 for more information about how treatment can help.