Tramadol – Uses, Side Effects, Dosage & Interactions

Generic Name: Tramadol
Brands: ConZip, Ultram, Ultram ER
Class: Pain reliever (Analgesic & Opioid)
Availability: Prescription needed
Molecular Formula: C₁₆H₂₅NO₂
Substance UNII: 39J1LGJ30J

What is Tramadol?

Tramadol is a highly addictive, prescription-only, controlled substance (schedule IV) opioid. It is often sold under the brand names ConZip and Ultram.

What is Tramadol Used For?

Tramadol is used to treat moderate to severe pain. While it can treat both acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term) pain, it is most often prescribed for short-term pain, as the body can quickly develop tolerance, decreasing its efficacy. Although, when prescribed for long-term use, it will often be in the form of extended-release tablets. For more information on the dosage and administration of tramadol, visit our dosage page.

Tramadol is sometimes used with acetaminophen (Tylenol, paracetamol) for pain relief; this formula is often sold under the brand name Ultracet.

How Does Tramadol Work?

It works by changing how the body responds to pain. Specifically, it can block pain signals from transmitting by binding to receptors in both the spinal cord and brain (Î¼-opiate receptors). Some research also indicates it can affect levels of serotonin and norepinephrine, two neurotransmitters associated with mood.

How Long Does it Take for Tramadol to Work?

How quickly this drug takes effect depends on which variety you use. For example, the quick-release variety can take 30 to 60 minutes to take effect. By contrast, the extended-release variety (ex. Ultram ER) can take up to 2 hours to release the initial 25% of the drug. The other 75% slowly releases over the next 24 hours. For more information on the half-life of tramadol, visit our half-life page.

Your doctor can decide which variety or alternative is best for you based on your specific needs.

Do Not Use Tramadol If:

There are several situations where this medication may not be the right choice for you. According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, the following should not use tramadol:

Those already using another product containing tramadol
Those using benzodiazepines or other central nervous system (CNS) depressants
Children under the age of 12
Children under the age of 18 after surgical removal of the tonsils or adenoid
Adolescents aged 12 to 18 at greater risk of respiratory distress
Those taking drugs affecting cytochrome P450 isoenzymes
Respiratory depression (slow unproductive breathing)
Hypersensitivity reactions/ other adverse events
History of seizures or serotonin syndrome
Talk to your pharmacist/ physician if allergic to other opioid medications

Please note that this list may not be complete, and there may be other situations where tramadol use is not advisable. For more information, you may visit our page on tramadol interactions.

Tramadol Pill Imprints

List of the most popular Tramadol pill imprints.

*This is not an exhaustive list

Tramadol Hydrochloride AN 627

Drug: Tramadol Hydrochloride
Strength: 50 mg
Pill Imprint: AN 627
Color: White
Shape: Round

Tramadol Hydrochloride 377

Drug: Tramadol Hydrochloride
Strength: 50 mg
Pill Imprint: 377
Color: White
Shape: Elliptical / Oval

Tramadol Hydrochloride TV 58

Drug: Tramadol Hydrochloride
Strength: 50 mg
Pill Imprint: TV 58
Color: White
Shape: Elliptical / Oval

Tramadol Hydrochloride 319

Drug: Tramadol Hydrochloride
Strength: 50 mg
Pill Imprint: 319
Color: White
Shape: Round

More about Tramadol

Disclaimer: this article does not constitute or replace medical advice. If you have an emergency or a serious medical question, please contact a medical professional or call 911 immediately. To see our full medical disclaimer, visit our Terms of Use page.