Many doctors prescribe tramadol to treat medium to severe or chronic pain. The drug can be used to reduce cancerous, joint, back, dental or postoperative pain. Because tramadol is considered less addictive than many other drugs, it is often a preferred painkiller. However, you should only take tramadol under medical supervision.
Just like any drug, there are possible side effects of taking tramadol. Although the side effects of tramadol aren’t as common as with many other drugs, they can still occur. One of the most common is the tendency to induce excessive sleeping. Other patients complain of nervousness, headaches or even spasms. Therefore, you should never engage in heavy work or drive while taking tramadol.
Long-term use of tramadol may also cause blurred vision, as well as breathlessness or a rapid heartbeat. Other possible side effects include a numbness or tingling sensation in the limbs, a puffy or itchy face, restlessness or uneasiness. If you experience any of these symptoms, make sure to consult your doctor immediately.
Additional common side effects include diarrhea, constipation, vomiting, sweating or nausea. The effects differ depending on each person’s dosage and metabolism. If you overdose on tramadol, you may suffer convulsions or breathing problems. Patients have even reported feelings of anxiety and agitation after taking the drug.
If you are taking any other medication, make sure to tell your doctor before taking tramadol. The drug can increase the effects of other drugs. You should never combine tramadol with any sedatives, muscle relaxants, antihistamines or antidepressants, and you should avoid alcohol. Last but not least, make sure to take only the dosage prescribed by your doctor.