Is Tramadol Addicting?
Tramadol has been shown to be effective in relieving moderate to moderately severe pain in thousands of people dealing with varying degrees of pain. However, there are some common misconceptions about Tramadol that may deter some patients from using the medication.
A Safe Narcotic?
Tramadol is sometimes classified as a narcotic, but it is not a narcotic in the same way that morphine is classified as a narcotic. Tramadol functions in a similar way to a narcotic drug, but does not produce the same side effects usually associated with common narcotic drugs. Used properly, Tramadol controls moderate to severe pain, but is not prone to addiction or dependence.
How Can Tramadol Be Addictive?
A recent study shows there is a low risk of addiction to Tramadol when used according to manufacturer's directions. Still there have been instances of patients becoming addicted to Tramadol. Further examination shows some reasons for this.
- Taking Tramadol, or any medication, without medical supervision can lead to instances of abuse.
- Using Tramadol for long periods of time may cause dependence, but this effect may be psychological.
- Some users of Tramadol increase the dosage with the belief that the more they take the less pain they will have. Tramadol has a maximum dosage and this should not be altered without consulting a doctor.
- Those with malignant health issues should not take Tramadol, it is meant to control pain.
Difference Between Addiction And Dependency?
Patients characterized as being dependent on Tramadol tend to be dependent because of a prior medical condition. Tramadol is only effective if the cause of the pain is addressed first. Tramadol may lead to dependency if used with normal dosage for long periods of time. A patient should be taken off of Tramadol slowly to avoid withdrawal issues.
Patients characterized as being addicted to Tramadol tend to use the medication in a way that does not follow the directors of the manufacturer or the doctor who prescribed it. This may include taking higher doses than recommended and taking Tramdol more often than the suggested amount of time between dosages. Indications of addiction include:
- Reporting lost or damaged medication to get refill
- Getting a prescription for Tramadol from multiple doctors
- A patient who thinks about when their next dose will be.
How Can Withdrawal Symptoms Be Avoided?
Those taking Tramadol should not abruptly stop taking the medication to avoid withdrawal symptoms. These may include:
- sweating
- anxiety
- insomnia
- tremors
- diarrhea
- hallucinations
Those who take Tramadol for a longer period of time tend to be the most likely to suffer withdrawal symptoms if not properly taken off the medication at paced rate.
How Do You Fight An Addiction To Tramadol?
The best way to combat an addiction to Tramadol is to avoid situations that may lead to an addiction. This includes following the doctor's instructions and advice. While it may be tempting to take more Tramadol if experiencing pain, this should be avoided. It is best for a patient to consult their doctor if they still experience pain while taking Tramadol, as the cause of the pain will need to be addressed.
There are specific methods typically used to treat addiction. One of the most common methods is known as the Waismann Method of Accelerated Neuro-Regulation. This method avoids withdrawal symptoms, but requires a brief hospitalization. Drug counseling and treatment programs are other common recommendations.
Some users of Tramadol have suggested that herbal remedies may prevent or reduce the chance of addiction. Caffeine may also counter the effects of withdrawal. If a patient suspects addiction they should contact their doctor for suggested treatments.