A common misconception that surrounds generic medication is that the prescribed dose will not be sufficient enough.
Patients believe that the higher the dose of generic tramadol they take, the better the pain relief effects will be. This is, however, untrue as a high dose will cause adverse effects instead.
If patients take a higher dose than necessary, especially a sudden increase, the treatment will not be able to carry out its function, may lose efficacy, and even cause unwanted side effects. If the proper dosage is adhered to and the increases are incremental, there are unlikely to be any adverse effects.
Side effects of Tramadol
All medications come with a dose of risk. From minor side effects to life-threatening allergic reactions, you should take any medication only after weighing its expected benefits as well as the risks after consumption. You can’t decide this alone on your own: your doctor, your pharmacist, and a bundle of information are available for your review.
Common side effects
The most common side effects of Tramadol occur in 5% or more of people who take tramadol. The list consists of:
- dizziness and vertigo
- nausea
- constipation
- headache
- drowsiness
- vomiting
- itchiness
- stimulation of the central nervous system
- weakness
- sweating
- heartburn
- dry mouth
- diarrhea
Less common side effects
Some people may have other side effects that happen with an incidence of less than 5%, such as:
- whole body discomfort
- allergic reactions
- suicidal tendencies
- weight loss
- rapid heartbeat
- drop in blood pressure upon standing up
- confusion
- disturbance in coordination
- constriction of the pupil
- fainting
- rash
- hives
- visual disturbance
- menopausal symptoms
- retention of urine
- difficulty breathing
- frequent urination
- serotonin syndrome
Serious side effects
Serious side effects may also occur in some people including:
- respiratory depression
- serotonin syndrome
- heart rhythm problems called QT prolongation
Seek medical attention right away if you have symptoms of serotonin syndrome, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, agitation, hallucinations, shivering, fast heart rate, fever, sweating, muscle stiffness, twitching, or loss of coordination. Serious breathing problems mostly happen in older adults and people, who are debilitated, have chronic breathing disorders or have wasting syndrome.
Although this is not a complete list of side effects, others may occur. Some of the above-mentioned side effects usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away with the passing time as your body adjusts to the medicine during treatment. Also, your health care expert may be able to advise you about different ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health care expert or physician if any of the following side effects remain for long or are troublesome or if you have any questions about them.
The bottom line
If you take tramadol, talk to your doctor about this medicine, its risks, and side effects. Use Tramadol exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not increase or decrease the dosage on your own or use it for longer than recommended. Tell your doctor if you feel an increased urge to take more of this medicine.
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