ULTRAM
BACKGROUND OF ULTRAM
Ultram is a medication used to treat moderate to moderately severe pain. Ultram is a centrally-acting analgesic. The generic name of Ultram is tramadol which is usually marketed as tramadol hydrochloride. Ultram may be prescribed to patients suffering from pain caused by surgery procedures such as hysterectomy, cesarean section, bone surgery, dental surgery and hip replacement. In addition to this, Ultram is also used for treatment in chronic conditions such as cancer and nerve, joint and low-back pain.
The action of Ultram is similar to those of narcotic analgesics. Ultram decreases the brain’s perception and response to pain. Ultram works on certain nerves in the brain that control the occurrence and sensation of pain by reducing the extent of the pain signal that is passed from one nerve to another. Ultram has a weak respiratory depressant effect and a substantially reduced occurrence of obstipation (severe constipation caused by intestinal obstruction) when given at recommended doses.
Tramadol, as the generic name of Ultram, has many other trade names. These include Adolonta, Anadol, Calmador, Contramal, Crispin, Lumidol, Mandolgine, Mosepan, Nobligan, Poltram, Siverol, Tiparol, Toplagic, Tradol, Tradolan, Tralgit, Tramacet, Tramacip, Tramadin, Tramal, Tramahexal, Tramazac, Tramedo, Ultracet, Zamadol and Zydol.
Tramadol hydrochloride was first introduced in 1977 by the German pharmaceutical company known as Grünenthal. The company marketed the drug under the trade name, Tramal. The company of Grünenthal has cross-licensed the drug to many other pharmaceutical companies that market it under different trade names.
CONTENTS OF ULTRAM
The active ingredient of Ultram consists of tramadol hydrochloride. Moreover, the inactive ingredients consist of lactose, magnesium stearate, corn starch, microcrystalline cellulose, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, titanium dioxide, polyethylene glycol, sodium starch glycolate, polysorbate 80 and wax.
APPLICATION OF ULTRAM
Ultram is in tablet form and is usually taken as a pill. The dosage of the medication depends on the response and medical condition of the patient. A quantity of 50 mg to 100 mg of Ultram can be administered every four to six hours as necessary for relief of painful conditions. Ultram 50 mg is usually prescribed as the initial dose for patients experiencing moderate pain. Additionally, Ultram 100 mg is usually more effective as the initial dose for patients experiencing more severe pain.
The safety of Ultram in children has not been proved. For adults, the maximum recommended dosage is 400 mg per day. For patients who have serious kidney disease, the maximum recommended dosage is 100 mg every twelve hours. Fifty milligrams every twelve hours is the maximum recommended dosage for patients who have a serious liver disease. In addition to this, adults who are older than 75 years can take a maximum dose of 300 mg of Ultram per day.
Ultram ER (extended-release) is also available for relief of moderate to moderately severe chronic pain in adults who require around-the-clock treatment for a prolonged period of time. Ultram ER is administered once a day that comes in 100 mg, 200 mg and 300 mg tablets. Ultram ER should not be applied at a dose of more than 300 mg per day.
Ultram tablets, especially the extended-release form, are not advisable to be split, chewed or crushed. The tablets should be swallowed with a drink of water. Following the prescriptions of the doctor is always best to avoid undesirable side effects.
SIDE EFFECTS OF ULTRAM
Improper use of Ultram may lead to adverse side effects. The side effects of Ultram may consist of dizziness, drowsiness, headache, weakness, blurred vision, flushing (warmth, redness or tingly feeling), nausea, difficulty in sleeping, anxiety, vomiting, agitation, constipation or diarrhea, indigestion, mood changes and a feeling of unreality.
Allergic reactions may also occur as a side effect of Ultram. These allergic reactions may include itching; hives; a red, blistering, peeling skin rash; difficulty in breathing and swelling of the face, tongue, lips or throat.
The uncommon or rare side effects of Ultram may consist of seizures, weak pulse, difficulty in breathing, hallucinations, irregular heartbeat and passing urine more frequently than usual or not passing urine as often as usual.
ULTRAM ABUSE AND DEPENDENCE
Although Ultram is not currently scheduled by the United States Drug Enforcement Agency, the drug is still considered as associated with craving and tolerance development. Ultram medication may cause dependence, especially if it has been used in higher dosage or regularly for an extended time. Tramadol may induce physical and psychological dependence of the morphine-type. Sudden stoppage of Ultram may also lead to withdrawal reactions such as anxiety, breathing problems, chills, diarrhea, difficulty in sleeping, hallucinations, nausea, piloerection, shaking, sweating, tremors and upper respiratory symptoms.
ULTRAM REHABILITATION PATIENTS SAY ABOUT MALIBU HORIZON
The identities of the people writing these statements in support of truths about their rehabilitation have been refrained from giving to protect their inalienable right to privacy. The foregoing names are fictional names of the author’s own choosing.
"My doctor prescribed me with Ultram due to pain because of my cancer; I got dependent on it and it was a terrible experience. Good thing Malibu Horizon was there, they’ve provided me with the best treatment program that was necessary to my case." —Jill
"It was hard for me to accomplish the tasks that were given to me by my boss due to joint and muscle pains. I tried use Ultram and at first it gave me relief. As time went by, I increased the dose not knowing that it could make my situation worse. I’m so glad that Malibu Horizon gave me the best treatment program. I’m so thankful because I can work efficiently now. Thanks to Malibu Horizon!" —Claudia
"All I wanted was for my cousin to feel better. I introduced her to my doctor and she was prescribed with Ultram for her cancer pain. Little did I know, she became drug dependent and, soon after, it brought her undesirable side effects. I searched for treatment programs and Malibu Horizon offered the best. It was never too late for my cousin’s recovery from drug abuse. Malibu Horizon was indeed, helpful. My cousin is so much happy now with her healthy life." —Mike