The Truth About Tramadol
In recent news, you may have read or watched segments about the rise in Tramadol related deaths and medical complications. Tramadol is not an opiate, but the medication acts similarly to opiates. Tramadol is non-opioid pain reliever used to treat moderate to severe pain. Tramadol carries with it many of the characteristics of opiate based pain relievers.
Tramadol can cause withdrawal and tolerance in a user. Tramadol is prescribed by a physician, so the medicine can seem safe. While short term use of Tramadol may not cause any negative side effects, the drug is addicting. Tramadol can cause fatality when combined with alcohol and you can overdose on Tramadol.
If you are in recovery, you can speak with your doctor about your history with drugs and alcohol. If your pain is manageable, your physician may be able to prescribe alternative pain medications that are less or non addicting.
The truth is that many people may feel safer because Tramadol is not classified as an opiate. However, Tramadol acts just like an opiate does. Tramadol is classified as a centrally acting synthetic opioid analgesic. This means that Tramadol effects the same areas of the brain as traditional narcotic pain relievers.
Tramadol abuse carries many of the same side effects and withdrawal symptoms. Symptoms include:
- Constipation
- Diarrhea during withdrawal
- Sweating
- Anxiety
- Slowed breathing
- Cravings
If you start taking Tramadol to relieve pain, you could become physically dependent on the medication without intending to. If you are in recovery, this could unintentionally lead to returning to active addiction. Because Tramadol is addicting, tolerance can be developed. Tolerance means that you need more and more of the drug to achieve similar effects. If you consume too much Tramadol, you are at risk for overdose.
Prescribed medications can be a slippery slope. A doctor is prescribing the drug to relieve pain. The risks of tolerance and dependence are high. These risks increase if you have a history of addiction. The best course of action that you can take is to talk with your medical provider honestly. Your physician will either prescribe you another medication, or watch your consumption closely.
Hired Power are experts at connecting you to the resources you need to beat active addiction. Through our range of services and expertise, you can achieve sobriety. Contact us now at 714-559-3919. Let us help you figure out the right steps to take.
