Get Help from a Private Treatment Center
Get back on track. Contact us today.
Name
E-mail
Phone
Drug Treatment Center
Call us at 866-238-2178

Ultram Addiction

Ultram is a medication used in the treatment of pain caused by surgery or chronic health conditions such as arthritis or fibromyalgia.  Ultram’s mechanism of action works by blocking the pain receptors of the body.  The drug is addictive and should be used only by prescription and under the care and supervision of a licensed medical professional.  Ultram should never be shared or given to a person who has a past history of drug or alcohol addiction.

The drug binds to certain opioid pain receptors within the human brain, blocking the reuptake of norepinephrine and serotonin.  Ultram blocks the pain messages to the brain and results in relief.  There are certain side effects which are associated with Ultram use which includes the following:

  • Dizziness
  • Swelling of eyelids, face or lips
  • Rash
  • Hives
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Dry mouth
  • Constipation
  • Headache
  • Sweating
  • Breathing problems
  • Chest tightness

There are also symptoms which can signify an overdose of Ultram which include the following:

  • Skin rash
  • Seizures
  • Hallucinations
  • Clammy and cold skin
  • Itching
  • Slowed respiration
  • Lowered body temperature
  • Slowed heartbeat
  • Dizziness
  • Coma

When Ultram was first introduced in 1995, medical professionals had no idea how likely an Ultram addiction would become.  Once the drug was released into the United States, the addiction and abuse propensity for Ultram was fully discovered.  The drug is addictive and though it is classified as a “non-narcotic,” taking large doses and misuse of the drug is still very dangerous.

People who have had an addiction to narcotic pain relievers can experience withdrawal symptoms if they take Ultram.  Seizures have been reported in people who abuse high doses of Ultram, which means the drug should be monitored carefully and used under the direction of a qualified medical professional.

There has also been suicide risks associated with Ultram addiction.  People who have expressed suicidal thoughts or desires should never be prescribed Ultram.  People taking tranquilizers or antidepressants or use alcohol in excess should also use extreme caution when taking Ultram. 

Another very serious development which can develop from an Ultram addiction is a life-threatening condition called serotonin syndrome.  The syndrome can include the following symptoms:

  • Agitation
  • Hallucinations
  • Mental status changes
  • Autonomic disruptions
  • Gastrointestinal problems
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Lowered blood pressure

Ultram and other tramadol products taken in large amounts, either alone or with other types of central nervous system depressants are one of the leading causes of drug-related deaths.  Fatalities usually occur within only one hour of taking an overdose of Ultram, which makes the need for immediate medical attention of the utmost importance.

Ultram addiction is a serious, complicated medical condition which requires the assistance of a skilled rehab facility and qualified medical staff.  With all of the risks associated with overdose and misuse, it is to the benefit of an addict to seek treatment as quickly as possible.

If you or someone you love is facing an addiction to Ultram, please contact us today for help.