The National Health Service (NHS) has issued a new safety alert concerning the powerful painkiller tramadol, highlighting significant and often 'unpleasant' side effects linked to its prolonged use.
What are the risks of long-term tramadol use?
Prescribed for moderate to severe pain, such as that following surgery or an injury, tramadol is an opiate-based medication. While effective, the NHS stresses that using it over a long period can increase the risk of serious health complications.
Tramadol is available as a tablet, capsule, liquid drop, or injection, with the latter typically administered in a hospital. Doctors may turn to it when other, less potent pain relief options have proven ineffective.
Key side effects highlighted by the NHS
The health service has pinpointed three primary hazards associated with extended tramadol use that patients need to be aware of.
Hyperalgesia is a condition where the body becomes more sensitive to pain. This means that normal sensations of pain can feel significantly more intense and severe. If a patient develops this symptom, their doctor may need to gradually reduce the tramadol dosage to manage it.
Another risk is tolerance. Over time, the body can get used to the drug, meaning that higher doses are required to achieve the same level of pain relief as before.
Perhaps the most concerning risk is addiction. As an opiate, tramadol carries a potential for dependency, especially with long-term use. Signs of addiction can include taking the medication more frequently than prescribed or finding it difficult to stop. Suddenly ceasing use can also lead to withdrawal symptoms, such as anxiety and restlessness.
What should patients do?
If you are taking tramadol and are concerned about any of these side effects, it is crucial to speak with your GP. They can review your medication to ensure you are on the lowest effective dose to manage your pain safely.
For a complete list of side effects and official guidance, you can visit the NHS website directly.
