About Tramadol

Tramadol is a strong painkiller from a group of medicines called opioids, or narcotics. It's used to treat moderate to severe pain.

If you have severe pain, your doctor may also prescribe it if weaker painkillers do not help.

Tramadol does not stop the pain completely, but you will not be able to feel it as much.

Tramadol is available only on prescription. It comes as tablets, capsules and liquid drops that you swallow. It can also be given by injection, but this is usually only done in hospital.

Key facts

• Tramadol usually starts working to relieve your pain in 30 to 60 minutes. If you're taking slow-release tablets or capsules it can take 24 hours to work.
• It's possible to become addicted to tramadol, but your doctor will explain how to reduce the risk.
• If you need to take tramadol for more than a few weeks, your treatment plan may include how and when to stop taking this medicine.
• It's best not to drink alcohol with tramadol because you're more likely to get side effects, like feeling sleepy.
• Do not drive a car, ride a bike or use tools or machinery while taking tramadol if the medicine makes you sleepy, dizzy, or clumsy or you have blurred vision or are unable to concentrate or make decisions.

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