Tramadol

Question 1

Drug Class

Answer 1

Opioids

Question 2

Active

Answer 2

Tramadol

Question 3

Indications

Answer 3

Moderate-to-severe acute or chronic pain

Question 4

Dose Range

Answer 4

Conventional: 50 – 100 mg q8-12h

CR: 100 – 200 mg bd

Maximum 400 mg daily.

Note: do not exceed 300 mg daily in people > 75

Question 5

SE’s

Answer 5

• dizziness
• headache
• CNS stimulation; agitation
• insomnia
• sweating
• dry mouth

i.e. similar to SSRI

less sedation, constipation and GI side effects than other opioids

Question 6

Counselling

Answer 6

Labels: A (for CR), 1, 5

• This medication may make you feel drowsy and may increase the effects of alcohol. If you are affected, do not drive or operate machinery.
• Tramadol can interact with a number of medications – check with your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicines including OTC products.

Question 7

Monitoring

Answer 7

• Chronic use: look after your teeth and mouth, and get dental checks regularly, as opioids may make your mouth dry which increases risk of dental caries.
• Pain relief
• SE’s: sedation, constipation, respiratory depression