Tramadol is the generic form of the brand-named medication known as Ultram, that is a prescription narcotic-like medication.
It was approved in 1995 by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat chronic moderate to moderately severe pain. The United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) classifies tramadol as a Schedule IV Substance, which are defined as “drugs with a low potential for abuse and low risk of dependence.” Tramadol belongs to the group of medications called opioid analgesics. As an opioid analgesic, tramadol binds to the opioid receptors in one’s body interfering with the communication of certain neurotransmitters as it inhibits the reuptake of norepinephrine and serotonin. It also stimulates the dopamine receptors and interferes with the release of GABA (gamma aminobutyric acid) in the central nervous system. Tramadol essentially works by blocking pain signals from one’s central nervous system and brain to the rest of the body.
Detox Timeline
There are a variety of contributing factors that will influence one’s detox process and associated withdrawal symptoms when detoxing from tramadol. These could include one’s physicality, one’s metabolism, how long an individual had used tramadol, the average dose/ amount of tramadol used, the individual’s personal health history, the presence of any co morbid disorders, if the individual used other substances simultaneously, and more. The duration of one’s detox process, how long before the first withdrawal symptoms present after one’s last use, and the intensity of the symptoms are also influenced by these factors. In a typical healthy adult, tramadol withdrawal begins one to two days after the last dose, peaks after day three, and subsides within one to two weeks.
Withdrawal Symptoms
Tramadol works like an opioid, which means that many of its withdrawal symptoms resemble those that accompany withdrawal from other opioid substances. Withdrawal symptoms that manifest because of detoxing from tramadol can include, but are not limited to, any combination of the following examples:
- Sweating
- Chills
- Irritability
- Anxiety
- Nausea and/ or vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Sleep disturbances (e.g., difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, etc.)
- Loss of appetite
- Panic
- Runny nose, coughing, and/ or sneezing
- Stomach cramps
- Restless leg syndrome
- Agitation
- Delirium
- Increased blood pressure
- Elevated heart rate
- Aches and pains in the muscles or joints
In situations where an individual is dehydrated, has co-occurring issues, and/ or may have an existing substance use disorder, tramadol withdrawal symptoms do have the propensity to be dangerous. While withdrawal symptoms can be quite uncomfortable, detoxing from tramadol is rarely life-threatening.
For Information and Support
Contemplating detox can be a very challenging time. Before any individual can begin to work on the underlying issues contributing to their substance abuse problem, they must be separated from the substances in their systems. If you are concerned for yourself or a loved one regarding substance abuse, and/ or addiction we recommend reaching out for help as soon as possible. The earlier you seek support, the sooner you and your loved ones can return to leading happy, healthy, and fulfilling lives. Sherwood Detox offers a stand-alone detox program. For additional information on detox, please do not hesitate to contact us at: 818-626-9959 or feel free to email us anytime. One of our trusted counselors is available to talk and discuss how we can best support you on your journey.
