Tramadol for back pain is also commonly sold under the brand name Ultram. Tramadol is an opioid analgesic drug prescribed for back pain management. The drug is extremely powerful and extreme care should be exercised with its use. Tramadol is a relative of codeine and can be used orally (in pill form) or intravenously (via injection). Prescribed versions are given to patients in pill form. Intravenous use gives an effect similar to morphine, but not quite as effective.
Tramadol is one of the most powerful pain relievers normally given to patients with severe acute or chronic pain. It is also one of the most risky, especially when used continuously for an extended time frame.
This report examines the dangers of using tramadol for chronic back pain problems.
Varieties of Tramadol for Back Pain
Tramadol was developed by a German company named Grünenthal GmbH. Originally, the drug was marketed by them under the brand name Tramal. Since its inception, the drug has been licensed to many other drug manufacturers and is now sold all over the world as the following brand name drugs: Adolan, Poltram, Tramazac, Adolonta, Toplagic, Anadol, Calmador, Contramal, Lumidol, Mandolgine, Nobligan, Siverol, Tiparol, Tradol, Zamadol, Tradolan, Tralgit, Tramacip, Tramadin, Crispin, Tramal, Tramahexal, Trama-Klosidol, Tramedo, Mosepan, Ultram, Zydol, Zytrim and Zytram.
Tramadol is also available in a slightly diluted version mixed with acetaminophen and marketed under the brand names Ultracet and Tramacet.
Cautions on Tramadol for Back Pain
Tramadol can be very addictive, both physically and psychologically. Prolonged usage should be avoided. Patients face severe withdrawal symptoms when they stop taking this drug and must be weaned off the medicine carefully by taking a controlled reduced dosage. There are known and unknown side effects of this drug that can have serious implications to your future health.
Drug interactions and precautions must be understood before taking Tramadol. It is crucial to follow the exact directions given by your doctor when taking a powerful opioid drug such as Tramadol. Make sure your doctor is aware of any health problems you have, or any other medicines you take, to avoid serious consequences. Be sure to tell your doctor if you use alcohol before taking this product. When combined with alcohol, the effects of both substances are exponentially increased, leading to dangerous and potentially fatal interactions. Tramadol should never be used by people with a history of alcoholism.
Using Tramadol for Pain Management
Yes, tramadol helps to reduce the pain. Yes, tramadol makes you feel better, to some degree. Yes, tramadol can also be very bad for you. Avoid taking this drug if at all possible. The risks and side effects are simply not worth the consequences to your health.
I recommend a holistic, non-pharmaceutical pain relief program in almost every case. Tramadol has destroyed countless lives and turned many patients into junkies who might eventually resort to taking illicit drugs just to remain functional. Remember to ask your doctor about alternatives which are better for your general health, yet still effective for your pain.