Tramadol

What it is used for

• Moderate to severe pain, such as after surgery or injury

Read our guides:

• Back and neck pain
• Osteoarthritis

Off-label uses

Doctors sometimes prescribe a medicine for a condition it is not officially licensed for. This is called off-label use. It is legal and common when there is good evidence it helps, and your doctor should explain why they are suggesting it.

Tramadol is not commonly used off-label.

How it works

Tramadol attaches to opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord, and increases serotonin and noradrenaline. Together these reduce how pain is felt.

Side effects

Like all medicines, Tramadol can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them. Many are mild and ease after the first few weeks.

Common side effects

• feeling sick
• constipation
• feeling dizzy or sleepy
• headache
• dry mouth
• sweating

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if these bother you or do not go away.

Serious side effects

These are rare. Call 111 or contact your doctor straight away if you get:

• slow or shallow breathing, or being very sleepy and hard to wake. Call 999
• fits
• signs of serotonin syndrome, such as confusion, high temperature and muscle twitching
• hallucinations or confusion

Call 999 if you have signs of a serious allergic reaction, such as swelling of your lips, mouth, throat or tongue, or trouble breathing.

You can report any side effect to the Yellow Card scheme, run by the medicines regulator.

Stopping and withdrawal

Important safety information

• It is addictive. It works best for short-term pain and is not recommended for most long-term pain.
• Do not take it with alcohol, benzodiazepines or other sedatives.
• It interacts with many antidepressants.
• It is illegal to drive if your driving is impaired.

Questions about your medicine?

A pharmacist can answer questions about your medicines for free, without an appointment. You can also ask your GP for a medication review. Check if you can get free prescriptions.