Tramadol is a prescription opioid medication used primarily for the short-term relief of moderate to severe pain. It works by acting on opioid receptors in the central nervous system, altering the way the brain perceives pain signals. Additionally, tramadol inhibits the reuptake of serotonin and norepinephrine, which also helps modulate pain
. It is available in various forms, including immediate-release and extended- release tablets, capsules, and liquid drops, and can be administered orally or by injection in hospital settings
. Tramadol is often prescribed when other non-opioid pain relievers are ineffective or not tolerated
. While tramadol is effective for pain management, it carries risks such as dependence, addiction, withdrawal symptoms if stopped abruptly, and side effects like nausea, constipation, dizziness, and in some cases, serious effects such as seizures and serotonin syndrome
. It is classified as a controlled substance due to its potential for misuse and dependence
. Tramadol is considered a lower-potency opioid compared to morphine and is used for various types of pain including postoperative pain, neuropathic pain, and pain associated with conditions like osteoarthritis and fibromyalgia
. In summary, tramadol is a centrally acting opioid analgesic and serotonin- norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor used to treat moderate to severe pain under medical supervision, with attention to its risks and side effects.
