About Ultram

Ultram is a pain reliever with an effect similar to that achieved with narcotic drugs. It achieves potency by reducing the brain`s reaction or perception of pain, through a decrease in the intensity of pain signals transmitted between the nerves.

Uses or Indications

Ultram provides a sustained relief from pain which may be moderate to mildly severe. It is also an effective management medication for pain after a surgical operation, or for chronic conditions like joint pain and cancer.

How to Use Ultram

Ultram is available in tablet form, and is meant to be used for oral intake. Users of the medication should carefully observe the directions of a doctor for intake, or as provided on the prescription label. Doses are normally taken at four to six-hour intervals. However, the maximum daily dose should not exceed 300mg. The drug may be taken with or without prior food intake, and must be swallowed whole; the tablet should not to be opened, crushed, broken, or chewed prior to intake. Tampering with the pill can cause too much of the medication to be released into the body at one time.

Possible Side Effects

Immediately seek medical help upon experiencing the following adverse effects: a difficulty in breathing, hives, and a swelling of the throat, face, tongue, and lips. If a weak pulse, convulsions, shallow breathing, or a peeling, red, blistering skin rash develops, discontinue use and contact a physician. Common effects include insomnia, blurred vision, weakness, dizziness, and drowsiness; a loss of appetite, accompanied by constipation, nausea, and vomiting, and flushing.

Drug Precautions

Patients should inform their physician of any allergic reaction to certain drugs, or if they have illnesses of the liver or kidney; a stomach disorder, or a background suicide attempts, depression, or mental illness; they may need an adjustment in the dose or may need to take tests before intake. People with a background of drug and alcohol dependence, epilepsy, head trauma, and those with a metabolic disorder, are also more susceptible to incur seizures after intake of Ultram. A consultation with a doctor prior to intake is recommended. Pregnant and breastfeeding women are also advised to do likewise.

Drug Interaction

Medications which may interact with Ultram include MAO inhibitors like tranylcypromine, selegiline, isocarboxazid, and phenelzine; antidepressants like citalopram, desipramine, fluoxetine, imipramine, paroxetine, amitriptyline, clomipramine, escitalopram, fluvoxamine, nortriptyline, and sertraline; ketoconazole; St. John`s wort; carbamazepine; digoxin; erythromycin; warfarin; rifampin; quinidine; and medicines with an aftereffect of drowsiness like pain management drugs, cold medications, and muscle relaxants.

Missed Dose

If a scheduled dose of the medication is missed, take it as soon as possible, on the condition that the next intake is not due for some time; otherwise, the missed dose should be skipped, and the next one taken in accordance with the regular schedule.

Overdose

Incurring an overdose of Ultram can be fatal. Indications of an overdose include cold or clammy skin, drowsiness, fainting, shallow breathing, a slow heart rate, a feeling of light-headedness, extreme weakness, and coma. In the presence of such symptoms, immediate medical help is necessary.

Storage

Keep and dispense in tightly-sealed containers. Store in a temperature of 25°C.