Tramadol HCL in the 50 mg size is a medication given to patients suffering pain ranging from moderate to intense. Generally, it is prescribed for relief of temporary pain such as that caused by dental surgery. While it’s not a narcotic per se, tramadol’s effects are a lot like any narcotic for combating pain. Be sure to pay close attention to the instructions given by your pharmacist and your doctor. Failure to do so may lead to addiction.
Suggested dosage regimen
1. A typical prescription calls for 1/2 to 2 tablets at 50 mg each, used each 4-6 hours as needed for pain. To begin with, you may be given a lower dose. Then your doctor may increase the dose gradually. This will give your body a chance to become accustomed to tramadol so that you can avoid side effects. Never take more than 400 mg of tramadol within a 24 hour period.
Side effects
2. You could feel lightheaded or drowsy after taking tramadol. As you initially begin using this drug, you might experience nausea or vomiting episodes. You might get relief by lying down, or by working your way up from a smaller dose.
Seizures
3. Seizures can be caused by taking tramadol. Although unusual, people who have experienced drug or alcohol addiction or have a history of head trauma or seizure disorder may experience seizures. Antidepressant drugs or sedatives used in conjunction with Tramadol can lead to a greater likelihood of seizure.
Interactions with other drugs
4. Do not consume alcohol or take any sort of CNS depressant or sedative while using tramadol without prescription. This includes other types of pain medications, sleeping pills and allergy medications. When used in combination with these drugs, tramadol will intensify the effect. The higher the dose, the more dangerous these side effects will be.
Patients who aren’t advised to use tramadol
5. Tramadol may be addictive, so anyone who has ever abused substances is not advised to take it. If you are experiencing suicidal thoughts, do not use tramadol. If you are taking anti-depressants such as MAO inhibitors, be extremely cautious. Tramadol should not be taken by pregnant women. It has been known to cause stillbirth, miscarriages, infant withdrawal symptoms and seizures in the newborn baby. Tramadol can enter into a nursing mother’s milk supply, so it is not advised for these patients.