The majority of adults can use this drug without any precautions. There are dosage restrictions depending on age and various medical conditions but, of all the painkillers, Tramadol causes the fewest side effects and, unlike the opiates, is not addictive.

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How does Tramadol work? What chemical processes are involved so we can feel less pain and move around more freely? What makes Tramadol so effective? Learn now …

Every drug has advantages and disadvantages. Do we take too many painkillers like Tramadol? What are the alternatives to Tramadol? Learn now

What is Tramadol?

This drug was first invented in the 1960's but it was not until 1977 that the testing was complete and it was released on to the market. This delay reflects the manufacturer's desire to solve a major problem with the other main painkillers then  being sold. All the stronger drugs were opiates and, as with any product derived from the poppy, there were serious risks of addiction if these drugs were used too long. Tramadol is a synthetic opiate. This is usually called an opioid. The idea is to create the same effect as a natural opiate but without the risk of addiction. Initially, the manufacturer, Grünenthal GmbH, thought it had completely succeeded and there were no warnings on the packaging. But as the years have passed and evidence has accumulated, it is now understood there is a risk for those whose psychological profile makes them more likely to abuse alcohol or drugs. There are now warnings to anyone who has had problems with any form of addiction. That said, there is only a little evidence that Tramadol is abused. It seems to be a relatively minor problem.

How is Tramadol supplied?

For use in the home, this drug is supplied as either a pill or capsule. Many of the capsules give the option for extended release, allowing people the chance to experience the pain relief over longer periods of time. There are also soluble versions for people who find it difficult to swallow pills and it can be supplied as a gel or cream for external application. For use by doctors, the drug is supplied in liquid form for injection or use in an IV system.

How does it work?

No matter how it is supplied, the drug works by changing the way in which serotonin and norepinephrine works in the brain. These two substances are part of the chemical messaging system. Tramadol interrupts the pain messages so that you are less aware of the pain in the affected part of your body. Because it works in the brain and not at the site of the injury or disorder, Tramadol is effective in relieving all types of pain, no matter what the cause. This means the drug's benefits in pain relief outweigh the risks of adverse side effects. Hence, Tramadol has become the drug of first resort around the world whenever someone is suffering moderate to severe pain.