What is Tramadol and Why It’s on the Controlled Substance List

You may know tramadol under its brand name, Ultram. Manufacturers also offer an extended release version, Ultram ER. When mixed with acetaminophen, which sells under the trade name Tylenol, the drug’s name changes to Ultracet. But what is tramadol, exactly?

Opioid Painkiller or Serotonin Uptake Inhibitor? Both!

Initially, the manufacturer believed that the substance had a lower addiction risk than hydrocodone. For this reason, the FDA did not classify it as a controlled substance in 1995. But ten years later, health experts realized that abuse potential is present. When investigating the drug’s addictive potential against the backdrop of its functionality, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) first had to answer just what is tramadol.

Even though the opioid content is considerably lower when compared to hydrocodone-containing medications like OxyContin, it’s still addictive. As a result, the DEA considered the substance’s psychotropic properties sufficient to add it to Schedule IV, controlled substance. In fact, experts suggested that opioid addiction potential coupled with antidepressant interactions created a dual effect potential.

So, what is Tramadol? Safe Painkiller or Dangerous Opioid?

In spite of its initial reputation as a safer option than oxycodone, the substance didn’t live up to the expectation. In fact, the low opioid content gave many patients and prescribing doctors a false sense of security. Intentional overdosing to achieve the opioid-derived euphoric high has shown unintended consequences and risks. Some of these are not present with other opioid-containing drugs, which blindsides people struggling with substance abuse.

• Seizures. The risk of experiencing this side effect increases with abuse of the drug.
• Serotonin syndrome. When you combine tramadol with certain medications or alcohol, it is possible for the brain’s serotonin levels to skyrocket. Symptoms include hallucinations, spikes in the heartbeat rate, and rapidly fluctuating blood pressure. Because it’s possible for patients to fall into a coma, immediate medical attention is vital.
• Panic attacks. The ups and downs of the heart rate and blood pressure result in shaking and the onset of panic attacks.

Do You Need an Opiate Addiction Treatment?

What is tramadol, if not a drug with an abuse potential like other painkillers and a few added side effects? If you’ve fallen victim to the marketing hype that described the substance as having a low addiction risk, you don’t have to continue suffering. Like any other opiate addiction, there are customized opiate addiction treatment options that help people struggling with the drug.

You start with a medical detox that slowly eases your body away from the drug. Next, Beaches Recovery provides the customized rehab setting that helps you chart a course for your life without depending on tramadol. Call 866.605.0532 today to make your recovery happen!