Description

Tramadol 100 mg (Extended-Release Tablets)

Overview

Tramadol 100 mg is a prescription pain-relief medication (analgesic) used to manage moderate to moderately severe pain in adults. It belongs to the opioid analgesic class but has a dual mechanism of action, providing both opioid-like pain relief and non-opioid activity that enhances comfort and pain tolerance.

Tramadol is available in both immediate-release and extended-release (ER) formulations. The 100 mg dose is typically prescribed as the extended-release form for continuous, around-the-clock pain control.

Key Details

• Generic Name: Tramadol Hydrochloride

• Brand Names: Ultram®, ConZip® (brand names vary by region)

• Strength: 100 mg (commonly extended-release)

• Dosage Form: Oral tablet or capsule

• Drug Class: Opioid Analgesic

• Manufacturer: (Varies by region)

• Prescription Required: ✅ Yes

• Controlled Substance: Schedule IV (in many regions – lower abuse risk than stronger opioids)

How It Works

Tramadol provides pain relief through two main mechanisms:

1. Opioid Receptor Activation: It binds to mu-opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord, reducing pain perception.

2. Neurotransmitter Reuptake Inhibition: It inhibits the reuptake of serotonin and norepinephrine, neurotransmitters involved in the body’s natural pain control pathways.

This dual action makes Tramadol effective for a broad range of pain conditions — including chronic musculoskeletal pain, post-surgical pain, and neuropathic pain.

Usage Guidelines

• Take Tramadol 100 mg exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider.

• The extended-release tablet should be taken once daily, at the same time each day.

• Swallow whole — do not crush, chew, or split.

• Can be taken with or without food, but consistency helps maintain even absorption.

• Do not exceed the prescribed dose, as this may increase the risk of seizures or respiratory depression.

• For patients new to Tramadol, doctors usually start with a lower dose and gradually increase if needed.

Safety Information & Precautions

• May cause drowsiness, dizziness, or impaired coordination — avoid driving or operating heavy machinery after taking.

• Do not mix with alcohol, sedatives, or other opioids, as this can cause serious or fatal side effects.

• Inform your doctor if you have breathing problems, seizures, liver or kidney disease, depression, or a history of substance abuse.

• Tramadol may cause dependence or withdrawal if used for a long time or stopped suddenly.

• Use with caution in elderly patients or those taking antidepressants, as serotonin syndrome (a rare but serious reaction) can occur.

• Pregnant or breastfeeding women should use only under medical advice.

Possible Side Effects

Common side effects include:

• Drowsiness or dizziness

• Nausea or vomiting

• Constipation

• Sweating or flushing

• Dry mouth

• Headache

Serious side effects (seek immediate medical attention):

• Slow or difficult breathing

• Confusion or hallucinations

• Seizures

• Signs of serotonin syndrome (agitation, high fever, rapid heartbeat, muscle stiffness)

• Signs of allergic reaction (rash, swelling, difficulty breathing)

Storage Instructions

• Store at room temperature (20–25 °C / 68–77 °F)

• Keep away from heat, moisture, and direct sunlight

• Store in a locked and secure place, away from children or pets

• Dispose of unused or expired tablets through a drug take-back program — do not flush down the toilet