By Iram Sharif
Tramadol Addiction
Drug addiction
has taken many forms, administration ways, and for many reasons. At present
time, each day reports a newer type of addiction that a person can never
imagine. Among one of these is Tramadol dependence. Tramadol is a synthetic (man-made) pain reliever (analgesic). The exact mechanism of
action of Tramadol is not known but it is similar to morphine. It binds to opioid
receptors in the brain that are important for transmitting the sensation of pain from throughout the body to the brain. It is often prescribed as an alternative to
opioids due to its negligible abuse potential. With first appearance of this
medication, the potential for the abuse of Tramadol remained low but with passage
of time, its usage as addiction has been increased.
Legal prescription
·
Pain reliever (moderate to severe
pain)
·
Prescribed
as an alternative to opioids due to its negligible abuse potential.
·
Not prescribed for children (up to
12 years of age)
·
If prescribed for adolescents (12 to
18 years) must consider their health conditions (over-weight, breathing
problems, severe lung diseases will not receive Tramadol)
Addicted signs & symptoms
Restlessness, excessive tear production, yawning, sweating, chills, muscle pain, anxiety,
backache, joint pain, weakness, abdominal cramps, insomnia, nausea, weight loss, vomiting, diarrhea, increased blood pressure, changes in respiratory
rate & heart rate, rigors, piloerections, Upper respiratory symptoms, Rarely hallucinations,
Complications if overdose
respiratory depression, sleepiness progressing to stupor or coma,
skeletal muscle flaccidity, cold and clammy skin, constricted pupils, seizures, slow heart rate, low blood pressure (hypotension), cardiac arrest, and death. Deaths due to overdose have been
reported with abuse and misuse of Tramadol.
Treatment
·
Inpatient
·
Detoxification (usually 28 to 30 days)
·
Medications (mostly buprenorphine/naloxone)
·
Psychotherapy (at individual, directive and
family levels)
Follow ups to maintain long lasting sobriety
