Tramadol belongs to the group of medicines called opioid analgesics. It acts in the central nervous system (CNS) to relieve pain. Tramadol is used to treat moderate to severe pain in adults. The extended release form of Tramadol is for around the clock treatment of pain and is not for use on as needed basis for pain.
The more common side effects of Tramadol can include: dizziness, headache, nausea and vomiting, drowsiness, dry mouth, sweating, lack of energy and constipation. Serious side effects can include: serotonin syndrome – fast heart rate, high blood pressure etc, serious breathing problems, physical dependence and withdrawal, adrenal insufficiency, androgen deficiency, seizures and addiction.
MISUSE OF THIS MEDICINE CAN CAUSE ADDICTION, OVERDOSE, OR DEATH, especially in a child or other person using the medicine without a prescription.
Taking tramadol during pregnancy may cause life-threatening withdrawal symptoms in the newborn. This medicine should not be given to a child younger than 12 years old while Ultram ER should not be given to anyone younger than 18 years old.