Tramadol, part of the opioid class, is commonly prescribed for moderate to severe pain, such as after an injury or surgery. Because of its potency and ability to manage pain effectively, doctors may turn to tramadol when other pain relievers fail. It is usually available as a tablet or capsule, but can also be given as a liquid or injection, the latter often used in hospital settings.In certain cases, ongoing tramadol use may be necessary, especially for those living with chronic pain conditions. While it can be essential for daily pain management, it is important to be aware that prolonged use may increase the risk of unwanted side effects.What is Tramadol?Tramadol is a dual-action opioid that affects serotonin and norepinephrine pathways, often described as a middle-ground painkiller, stronger than non-opioid medications but thought to be less addictive than morphine. It is prescribed for moderate-to-severe pain, including both post-surgical discomfort and long-term chronic conditions.Globally, prescriptions have surged, partly because of the perception that tramadol is safer and carries a lower risk of dependence compared with stronger opioids.Tramadol Side Effects: Dangers of Taking Tramadol Over A Long-Term PeriodHyperalgesiaThe NHS has warned about the risks of long-term tramadol use, including hyperalgesia. This condition can make you more sensitive to pain, so that ordinary aches feel much stronger or more intense than usual. If this occurs, your doctor may recommend gradually reducing the tramadol dose to help ease these heightened sensations.ToleranceOver time, the body can develop a tolerance to tramadol. This means you may need higher doses to achieve the same level of pain relief that you once got from a smaller amount.AddictionBeing an opioid, tramadol carries a risk of addiction, particularly when used for a long stretch. Signs that dependency is developing could include difficulty stopping the medication or taking it more often than prescribed.Stopping tramadol suddenly can also lead to withdrawal symptoms, such as feelings of anxiety or restlessness. If this happens, your GP may reassess your treatment plan to ensure you are on the safest dose necessary to manage your pain effectively.Time To Reconsider Tramadol For Chronic Pain?Recent research, including a systematic review and meta-analysis by Medscape, suggests that tramadol’s effectiveness for chronic pain may be limited. The studies found only minimal pain relief while noting that serious side effects were twice as likely among tramadol users, particularly cardiac complications.“Considering the modest pain relief and heightened risk of harm, tramadol should be reconsidered for chronic pain management,” said Dr. Jehad Ahmad Barakji of the Centre for Clinical Intervention Research at Rigshospitalet in Copenhagen, speaking to Medscape Medical News.Researchers did note that the quality of evidence varied, with certainty ranging from low to moderate. Common serious issues involved the heart, such as chest pain, coronary artery disease, and heart failure. Non-serious but bothersome side effects — including nausea, dizziness, constipation, and drowsiness, were frequent and often led patients to stop taking the drug.This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a qualified healthcare professional regarding any questions about medications or health conditions.
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