Ensure accuracy when prescribing, dispensing, and administering tramadol oral solution. Dosing errors due to confusion between mg and mL can result in accidental overdose and death.
Tramadol exposes patients and other users to the risks of opioid addiction, abuse, and misuse, which can lead to overdose and death. Assess each patient's risk prior to prescribing tramadol, and monitor all patients regularly for the development of these behaviors and conditions.
To ensure that the benefits of opioid analgesics outweigh the risks of addiction, abuse, and misuse, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has required a REMS for these products. Under the requirements of the REMS, drug companies with approved opioid analgesic products must make REMS-compliant education programs available to healthcare providers. Healthcare providers are strongly encouraged to complete a REMS-compliant education program; counsel patients and/or their caregivers, with every prescription, on safe use, serious risks, storage, and disposal of these products; emphasize to patients and their caregivers the importance of reading the Medication Guide every time it is provided by their pharmacist; and consider other tools to improve patient, household, and community safety.
Serious, life-threatening, or fatal respiratory depression may occur with use of tramadol. Monitor for respiratory depression, especially during initiation of tramadol or following a dose increase. Instruct patients to swallow tramadol capsules and extended-release tablets intact, and not to split, break, chew, crush, or dissolve the contents of the capsules or extended-release tablets to avoid exposure to a potentially fatal dose of tramadol.
Accidental ingestion of tramadol, especially by children, can be fatal.
Life-threatening respiratory depression and death have occurred in children who received tramadol. Some of the reported followed tonsillectomy and/or adenoidectomy; in at least 1 case, the child had evidence of being an ultra-rapid metabolizer of tramadol due to a CYP450 2D6 polymorphism. Tramadol is contraindicated in children <12 years of age and in children <18 years of age following tonsillectomy and/or adenoidectomy. Avoid the use of tramadol in adolescents 12 to 18 years of age who have other risk factors that may increase their sensitivity to the respiratory depressant effects of tramadol.
Prolonged use of tramadol during pregnancy can result in neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome, which may be life-threatening if not recognized and treated, and requires management according to protocols developed by neonatology experts. If opioid use is required for a prolonged period in a pregnant woman, advise the patient of the risk of neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome and ensure that appropriate treatment will be available.
The effects of concomitant use or discontinuation of cytochrome P450 3A4 inducers, 3A4 inhibitors, or 2D6 inhibitors with tramadol are complex. Use of cytochrome P450 3A4 inducers, 3A4 inhibitors, or 2D6 inhibitors with tramadol requires careful consideration of the effects on the parent drug, tramadol, and the active metabolite, M1.
Concomitant use of opioids with benzodiazepines or other CNS depressants, including alcohol, may result in profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and death. Reserve concomitant prescribing of tramadol and benzodiazepines or other CNS depressants for use in patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. Limit treatment to the minimum effective dosages and durations. Follow patients for signs and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation.
Pain management, moderate to severe:
Note: In general, opioids may be considered a potential component of a comprehensive, multimodal, patient-specific treatment plan for pain. Nonopioid analgesia should be maximized, if appropriate, prior to initiation of opioid analgesia; combination therapy with analgesics with differing mechanisms of action may improve efficacy and reduce the doses and/or frequency required for each agent (Ref). Tramadol doses should be titrated to appropriate analgesic effect; use the lowest effective dose for the shortest period of time. Tramadol is used for a variety of moderate to moderately severe painful conditions and may be of particular benefit for patients with mixed nociceptive and neuropathic pain due to its dual mechanism of action (Ref).
Acute pain (eg, postoperative):
Note: In patients who are experiencing acute pain severe enough to require opioids (in addition to appropriate nonopioid analgesia), limit the quantity prescribed to the expected duration of acute pain; a quantity sufficient for ≤3 days is often adequate, whereas >7 days is rarely needed (Ref). Long-acting preparations are not recommended for treatment of acute pain in opioid-naive patients (Ref). Some experts avoid the use of tramadol in patients with moderate to severe acute pain due to the wide interpatient variability in metabolism and related incidences of adverse events and unreliable analgesia (Ref).
Immediate release: Oral: Initial: 50 mg every 4 to 6 hours as needed (Ref); some experts suggest that 25 to 50 mg 3 times per day may be sufficient for patients with moderate acute pain (Ref). The dose may be increased as needed and tolerated to 50 to 100 mg every 4 to 6 hours (maximum: 400 mg/day) (Ref).
Chronic pain (alternative agent):
Note: Opioids, including tramadol, are not the preferred therapy for chronic noncancer pain due to insufficient evidence of benefit and risk of serious harm; nonpharmacologic treatment and nonopioid analgesics are preferred with the exception of pain from sickle cell disease and in end-of-life care (Ref). Opioids, including tramadol, should only be considered in patients who experience clinically meaningful improvement in pain and function that outweighs patient safety risks (Ref). The utility of tramadol in patients with chronic pain due to cancer is questionable, especially considering its dual mechanism of action and dose ceiling (Ref).
Opioid-naive patients not currently on tramadol immediate release:
Immediate release: Oral: The ideal dosing regimen has not been established; consider restricting the initial dose to <300 mg tramadol per day (ie, <50 mg morphine equivalents daily) (Ref). An example initial dose is 25 to 50 mg every 6 hours as needed (Rosenquist 2022). The dose may be increased as needed and tolerated to 50 to 100 mg every 4 to 6 hours (maximum: 400 mg/day) (Ref).
Extended release:
Note: Although manufacturer's labeling contains the following directions for initiating ER tramadol products in opioid-naive patients with chronic pain, it is recommended that when starting opioid therapy, treatment be initiated with an IR preparation to more accurately determine the daily opioid requirement and decrease the risk of overdose (Ref). The CDC recommends that ER opioids be reserved for patients who have received IR opioids daily for ≥1 week yet continue to experience severe, continuous pain (Ref).
Initial: Oral: 100 mg once daily; titrate by 100 mg/day increments every 5 days as needed (maximum: 300 mg/day)
Tridural [Canadian product]: Initial: Oral: 100 mg once daily; titrate by 100 mg/day increments every 2 days as needed (maximum: 300 mg/day)
Zytram XL [Canadian product]: Oral: 150 mg once daily; if pain relief is not achieved, may titrate by increasing dosage incrementally with sufficient time to evaluate effect of increased dosage, generally not more often than every 7 days (maximum: 400 mg/day).
Patients currently on tramadol IR tablets for ≥1 week: Calculate 24-hour tramadol IR tablet total dose and initiate total ER daily dose (round dose to the next lowest 100 mg increment); titrate as needed and tolerated to desired effect (maximum: 300 mg/day). In patients who experience breakthrough pain, clinicians may consider the addition of an IR rescue analgesic (eg, NSAID or short-acting weak opioid). Note: Oral solution relative bioavailability compared to ER products has not been established; conversion to ER products should be accompanied by close monitoring of excessive sedation and respiratory depression.
Discontinuation or tapering of therapy: When discontinuing or tapering chronic opioid therapy, the dose should be gradually tapered down. An optimal universal tapering schedule for all patients has not been established (Ref). Proposed schedules range from slow (eg, 10% reductions per week or 10% reduction per month depending on duration of chronic therapy) to rapid (eg, 25% to 50% reduction every few days) (Ref). Individualize based on discussions with patient to minimize opioid withdrawal while considering patient-specific goals and concerns as well as the pharmacokinetics of the opioid being tapered. Slower tapers may be appropriate in patients who have been receiving opioids for a long duration (eg, years), particularly in the final stage of tapering, whereas more rapid tapers may be appropriate in patients experiencing severe adverse events (Ref). Monitor carefully for signs/symptoms of withdrawal. If the patient displays withdrawal symptoms, consider slowing the taper schedule; alterations may include increasing the interval between dose reductions, decreasing amount of daily dose reduction, pausing the taper and restarting when the patient is ready, and/or coadministration of an alpha-2 agonist (eg, clonidine) to blunt withdrawal symptoms (Ref). Continue to offer nonopioid analgesics as needed for pain management during the taper; consider nonopioid adjunctive treatments for withdrawal symptoms (eg, GI complaints, muscle spasm) as needed (Ref).
Premature ejaculation (alternative agent) (off-label use):
Note: Tramadol may be considered in patients who have failed other therapies (eg, SSRIs, topical anesthetics). Consideration should be given to the risk of addiction and adverse effects associated with opioids (Ref); to promote safe use, regular follow-up to monitor for response, toxicity, and misuse is recommended.
Immediate release: Oral: The ideal dosing regimen has not been established; dosage range studied: 25 to 50 mg administered on demand 1 to 3 hours prior to intercourse (Ref).
Dosage adjustment for concomitant therapy: Significant drug interactions exist, requiring dose/frequency adjustment or avoidance. Consult drug interactions database for more information.
The renal dosing recommendations are based upon the best available evidence and clinical expertise. Senior Editorial Team: Bruce Mueller, PharmD, FCCP, FASN, FNKF; Jason Roberts, PhD, BPharm (Hons), B App Sc, FSHP, FISAC; Michael Heung, MD, MS.
Altered kidney function (Ref):
CrCl ≥30 mL/minute: Immediate release, extended release: No dosage adjustment necessary.
CrCl <30 mL/minute: Immediate release: Increase dosing interval to every 12 hours; maximum: 200 mg/day. ER formulation should be avoided.
Hemodialysis, intermittent (thrice weekly): Dialyzable (7%):
Immediate release: Lower initial doses and an extended dosing interval (eg, 25 mg twice daily) are recommended (Ref); titrate to response. The manufacturer’s labeling recommends a maximum daily dose of 200 mg/day; however, since a uremic state may lower seizure threshold, some experts recommend not exceeding 50 mg twice daily (Ref). ER formulation should be avoided.
Peritoneal dialysis: Dialyzability unknown (Davison 2014):
Immediate release: Lower initial doses and an extended dosing interval (eg, 25 mg twice daily) are recommended (Ref); titrate to response. Although a maximum daily dose of 200 mg/day has been suggested (Ref), some experts recommend not exceeding 100 mg/day since a uremic state may lower the seizure threshold (Ref). ER formulation should be avoided.
The hepatic dosing recommendations are based up on the best available evidence and clinical expertise. Senior Editorial Team: Matt Harris, PharmD, MHS, BCPS, FAST; Jeong Park, PharmD, MS, BCPS, FCCP, FAST; Arun Jesudian, MD; Sasan Sakiani, MD.
Note: Tramadol is a prodrug that requires conversion to the primary active metabolite (O-desmethyl tramadol) in the liver. In patients with hepatic impairment, tramadol is subject to reduced hepatic metabolism, which may result in ineffective pain control (Ref). Dose recommendations for hepatic impairment are based on the usual recommended dose of 50 to 100 mg every 4 to 6 hours for the treatment of acute and chronic pain. Use of the IR formulation is preferred over the ER formulation in patients with hepatic impairment (Ref).
Initial or dose titration in patients with preexisting liver cirrhosis :
Pain management: Moderate to severe:
Acute pain: Immediate release:
Child-Turcotte-Pugh class A: Oral: Initial: 50 mg every 8 hours as needed; may increase to 50 mg every 6 hours based on tolerability and response (maximum: 200 mg/day) (Ref).
Child-Turcotte-Pugh class B: Oral: Initial: 25 mg every 8 to 12 hours as needed; may increase to max 100 mg/day in 2 to 3 divided doses based on tolerability and response (Ref).
Child-Turcotte-Pugh class C: Use is not recommended (Ref).
Chronic pain:
Child-Turcotte-Pugh class A and B: Use of alternative analgesics (opioid or nonopioid) are preferred due to potential decreased tramadol efficacy (Ref).
Child-Turcotte-Pugh class C: Use is not recommended (Ref).
Dosage adjustment in patients with chronic, worsening hepatic function during treatment (eg, progression from Child-Turcotte-Pugh class A to B):
Pain management: Moderate to severe:
New Child-Turcotte-Pugh class A and B: Use of alternative analgesics (opioid or nonopioid) are preferred due to potential decreased tramadol efficacy (Ref).
Progression to Child-Turcotte-Pugh class C: Use is not recommended; use of alternative analgesics (opioid or nonopioid) are preferred due to potential decreased tramadol efficacy (Ref).
Acute worsening of hepatic function (eg, requiring hospitalization): Discontinue tramadol during the acute event; may resume once the acute event has resolved (ie, LFTs have stabilized or returned to baseline) (Ref).
(For additional information see "Tramadol: Pediatric drug information")
Note: Doses should be titrated to appropriate analgesic effect; use the lowest effective dose for the shortest period of time:
Pain management, moderate to severe pain (excluding postoperative tonsillectomy/adenoidectomy pain): Note: The FDA has recommended that tramadol not be used in pediatric patients <12 years of age and all pediatric patients undergoing tonsillectomy and/or adenoidectomy due to increased risk of breathing problems (sometimes fatal). Slowed or difficult breathing has been reported in pediatric patients <18 years of age; risk may be increased in pediatric patients who are obese or have conditions such as obstructive sleep apnea or severe lung disease, or who are ultrarapid metabolizers of the drug (Ref).
Acute pain: Immediate-release formulations:
Children and Adolescents 4 to ≤16 years: Limited data available: Oral: 1 to 2 mg/kg/dose every 4 to 6 hours; maximum single dose: 100 mg (usual adult starting dose: 50 to 100 mg); maximum daily dose is the lesser of 8 mg/kg/day or 400 mg/day (Ref). Note: Due to potential respiratory complications, tramadol should be avoided in patients <12 years of age and all pediatric patients undergoing tonsillectomy and/or adenoidectomy (Ref).
Adolescents ≥17 years: Oral: 50 to 100 mg every 4 to 6 hours; maximum daily dose: 400 mg/day. For patients not requiring rapid onset of effect, tolerability to adverse effects may be improved by initiating therapy at 25 mg/day and titrating dose by 25 mg every 3 days until 25 mg 4 times daily is reached. Dose may then be increased by 50 mg every 3 days as tolerated to reach 50 mg 4 times daily.
Chronic pain: Extended-release formulations: Adolescents ≥18 years: Oral: Note: For patients requiring around-the-clock pain management for an extended period of time. Opioids, including tramadol, are not the preferred therapy for chronic noncancer pain due to insufficient evidence of benefit and risk of serious harm; nonpharmacologic treatment and nonopioid analgesics are preferred with the exception of pain from sickle cell disease and in end-of-life care (Ref). Opioids, including tramadol, should only be considered in patients who experience clinically meaningful improvement in pain and function that outweighs patient safety risks (Ref).
Patients not currently on immediate-release tramadol: 100 mg once daily; titrate every 5 days; maximum daily dose: 300 mg/day.
Patients currently on immediate-release tramadol: Calculate 24-hour total immediate-release tramadol dose and initiate total extended-release daily dose (round dose to the next lowest 100 mg increment) once daily; titrate as tolerated to desired effect; maximum daily dose: 300 mg/day.
Dosage adjustment for concomitant therapy: Significant drug interactions exist, requiring dose/frequency adjustment or avoidance. Consult drug interactions database for more information.
Immediate release: Adolescents ≥17 years:
CrCl ≥30 mL/minute: There are no dosage adjustments provided in the manufacturer's labeling; use with caution.
CrCl <30 mL/minute: Increase dosing interval to every 12 hours; maximum daily dose: 200 mg/day.
Dialysis: Dialyzable (7%); increase dosing interval to every 12 hours; maximum daily dose: 200 mg/day; administer regular dose on the day of dialysis.
Extended release: Adolescents ≥18 years:
CrCl ≥30 mL/minute: There are no dosage adjustments provided in the manufacturer's labeling; use with caution.
CrCl <30 mL/minute: Avoid use.
Immediate release: Adolescents ≥17 years: There are no dosage adjustments provided in the manufacturer's labeling. In patients with cirrhosis, recommended dose is 50 mg every 12 hours.
Extended release: Adolescents ≥18 years:
Mild to moderate impairment (Child-Pugh class A and B): There are no dosage adjustments provided in the manufacturer's labeling; use with caution.
Severe impairment (Child-Pugh class C): Avoid use.
Elderly >65 years to ≤75 years: Refer to adult dosing; use with caution and initiate at the low end of the dosing range.
Elderly >75 years:
Immediate release: Maximum: 300 mg/day.
Extended release: Use with extreme caution.
Excipient information presented when available (limited, particularly for generics); consult specific product labeling. [DSC] = Discontinued product
Capsule Extended Release 24 Hour, Oral, as hydrochloride:
ConZip: 100 mg, 200 mg, 300 mg [contains fd&c blue #2 (indigo carm) aluminum lake, quinoline (d&c yellow #10) aluminum lake]
Generic: 100 mg, 150 mg [DSC], 200 mg, 300 mg
Solution, Oral, as hydrochloride:
Qdolo: 5 mg/mL (473 mL) [contains propylene glycol, sodium benzoate; grape flavor]
Generic: 5 mg/mL (5 mL)
Tablet, Oral, as hydrochloride:
Ultram: 50 mg [DSC] [scored; contains corn starch]
Generic: 50 mg, 100 mg
Tablet Extended Release 24 Hour, Oral, as hydrochloride:
Generic: 100 mg, 200 mg, 300 mg
Yes
ConZip extended release capsules are formulated as a biphasic product, providing immediate and extended release components:
100 mg: 25 mg (immediate release) and 75 mg (extended release)
200 mg: 50 mg (immediate release) and 150 mg (extended release)
300 mg: 50 mg (immediate release) and 250 mg (extended release)
EnovaRX-Tramadol and Active-Tramadol creams are compounded from kits. Refer to manufacturer’s labeling for compounding instructions.
Synapryn FusePaq is a compounding kit for the preparation of an oral suspension. Refer to manufacturer's labeling for compounding instructions.
Excipient information presented when available (limited, particularly for generics); consult specific product labeling. [DSC] = Discontinued product
Capsule Extended Release 24 Hour, Oral, as hydrochloride:
Durela: 100 mg, 200 mg, 300 mg [contains fd&c blue #2 (indigo carm) aluminum lake, quinoline (d&c yellow #10) aluminum lake]
Tablet, Oral, as hydrochloride:
Ultram: 50 mg [DSC]
Generic: 50 mg
Tablet Extended Release 24 Hour, Oral:
Zytram XL: 75 mg [contains fd&c blue #2 (indigotine)]
Zytram XL: 150 mg, 400 mg
Tablet Extended Release 24 Hour, Oral, as hydrochloride:
Ralivia: 100 mg, 200 mg, 300 mg
Tridural: 100 mg, 200 mg, 300 mg
Zytram XL: 100 mg, 200 mg, 300 mg
Generic: 100 mg, 200 mg, 300 mg
C-IV
An FDA-approved patient medication guide, which is available with the product information and as follows, must be dispensed with this medication:
ConZip: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2021/022370s020lbl.pdf#page=35
Qdolo: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2020/214044s000lbl.pdf#page=27
Ultram: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2021/020281s048lbl.pdf#page=42
Ultram ER: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2017/021692s015lbl.pdf#page=36
Oral:
Immediate release: Administer without regard to meals. Measure oral solution with a calibrated oral syringe or other oral dosing device with metric units of measure (do not use household teaspoons or tablespoons); ensure accurate dosing between mg and mL.
Extended release: Swallow whole; do not crush, chew, dissolve, or split.
Capsule: Administer without regard to meals.
Tablet: Administer without regard to meals but administer in a consistent manner of either with or without meals.
Canadian products:
Durela, Ralivia, Zytram XL: Administer without regard to meals.
Tridural: Administer once daily with breakfast.
Bariatric surgery:
Capsule and tablet, extended release: Some institutions may have specific protocols that conflict with these recommendations; refer to institutional protocols as appropriate. ER capsule should be swallowed whole. Do not crush, chew, dissolve, or split as this may result in rapid release and a potentially fatal dose of tramadol. IR tablet formulation is available. If safety and efficacy can be effectively monitored, no change in formulation or administration is required after bariatric surgery; however, clinicians are advised to monitor closely for adverse effects and withdrawal symptoms after bariatric surgery. Oral morphine has been shown to have significantly increased Cmax and decreased Tmax in the immediate period (1 to 2 weeks) and long-term (6 months) period after bariatric surgery.
Oral:
Immediate-release tablet: May administer with or without food, but it is recommended that it be administered in a consistent manner.
Extended-release tablet: Swallow whole with a sufficient amount of liquid. Do not crush, cut, dissolve, or chew extended-release tablet; may be taken without regard to meals; tablet should be taken once daily at approximately the same time each day.
Pain management:
Extended release: Management of pain severe enough to require daily, around-the-clock, long-term opioid treatment and for which alternative treatment options are inadequate.
Immediate release: Management of pain severe enough to require an opioid analgesic and for which alternative treatments are inadequate.
Limitations of use: Reserve tramadol for use in patients for whom alternative treatment options (eg, nonopioid analgesics) are ineffective, not tolerated, or would be otherwise inadequate to provide sufficient management of pain. Tramadol ER is not indicated as an as-needed analgesic.
Premature ejaculation
TraMADol may be confused with tapentadol, Toradol Trandate, traZODone, Voltaren
Ryzolt may be confused with Rydapt
Ultram may be confused with lithium, Ultane, Ultracet, Voltaren
The Institute for Safe Medication Practices (ISMP) includes this medication among its list of drug classes which have a heightened risk of causing significant harm when used in error.
Beers Criteria: Tramadol is identified in the Beers Criteria as a potentially inappropriate medication to be used with caution in patients 65 years and older due to the potential to cause or exacerbate syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion (SIADH) or hyponatremia; monitor sodium concentration closely when initiating or adjusting the dose in older adults (Beers Criteria [AGS 2019]).
KIDs List: Tramadol, when used in pediatric patients <18 years of age, is identified on the Key Potentially Inappropriate Drugs in Pediatrics (KIDs) list and should be used with caution due to risk of respiratory depression unless pharmacogenetic testing completed (weak recommendation; low quality of evidence) (PPA [Meyers 2020]).
Theradol [Netherlands] may be confused with Foradil brand name for formoterol [US, Canada, and multiple international markets], Terazol brand name for terconazole [US and Canada], and Toradol brand name for ketorolac [Canada and multiple international markets]
Trexol [Mexico] may be confused with Trexall brand name for methotrexate [US]; Truxal brand name for chlorprothixene [multiple international markets]
Various CNS effects have been reported in association with tramadol use in clinical trials and case reports. In clinical trials, the most common CNS effects include dizziness, sedated state, drowsiness, headache, and central nervous system stimulation. Less commonly reported CNS adverse effects include euphoria, anxiety, depression, anger, hostility, aggression, lack of concentration, and cognitive dysfunction (Ref). In contrast, improvements in anxiety and depression symptoms have been reported during tramadol use (Ref). Euphoric effects and possible antianxiety and antidepressant effects may contribute to the addiction potential of tramadol (Ref).
Mechanism: Dose-related; tramadol metabolism to active metabolite, M1, may contribute to euphoric effect (Ref).
Risk factors:
• Dose; generally greater with higher doses
• Concurrent use of CNS depressant medications
• CYP2D6 ultra-rapid metabolizers
Constipation has been reported in patients taking opioids, including tramadol (Ref).
Mechanism: Dose-related; related to the pharmacologic action (ie, activation of mu opioid receptors in the GI tract resulting in decreased peristalsis, reduced mucosal secretions, and delayed gastric emptying) (Ref).
Onset: Intermediate; occurs within first 4 weeks of therapy (Ref). Minimal to no tolerance to constipation develops with chronic use ((Ref).
Risk factors:
• Dose; generally greater with higher doses
Hyponatremia has been reported with tramadol use; many cases have been severe (sodium <120 mmol/L). Some cases have occurred due to the syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone.
Onset: Varied; most cases have occurred within the first week of initiation.
Risk factors:
• Females >65 years of age may be at higher risk
Life-threatening or fatal respiratory depression has occurred with opioids, including tramadol, at therapeutic and supratherapeutic doses in adult and pediatric patients (Ref). Respiratory depression may be reversible with medical intervention (Ref). Tramadol may be associated with less risk of respiratory depression than other opioids in adults (Ref); in pediatric patients, a serious (sometimes fatal) risk of respiratory depression exists with tramadol and is similar to that of opioids such as codeine (Ref).
Mechanism: Dose-related; related to the pharmacologic action (ie, activation of mu opioid receptors in the CNS respiratory center) (Ref).
Onset: Rapid; mean of 8 hours after ingestion (range: 1 to 24 hours); dependent on dose and patient variables (eg, CYP2D6 ultra-rapid metabolizer, kidney impairment) (Ref).
Risk factors:
• Dose; generally greater with higher doses (Ref)
• Age ≥65 years (Ref)
• Cachexia
• Cardiovascular disease (Ref)
• Chronic pulmonary disease (Ref)
• Concurrent use of other psychoactive medications (eg, benzodiazepines or CNS depressants, antipsychotics) (Ref)
• CYP2D6 ultra-rapid metabolizers (adult and pediatric) (Ref)
• Debilitation
• Depression (or other concurrent psychiatric illness) (Ref)
• Kidney or liver impairment (Ref)
• Substance use disorder (Ref)
• Pediatric:
• Age <12 years of age (Ref)
• Age ≥12 years with comorbid conditions like obesity, obstructive sleep apnea, or severe lung disease, which may increase the risk of serious breathing problem (Ref)
Seizure has been reported after therapeutic and supratherapeutic doses of tramadol (Ref). Seizures typically present as a single generalized tonic-clonic episode lasting <5 minutes (Ref); although, recurrent seizures have been reported (Ref).
Mechanism: Dose-related. Mechanism not fully elucidated; may be related to excessive serotonergic activity (Ref), opioid-dependent GABA receptor inhibition (Ref), and/or opioid-receptor dependent histamine release (Ref).
Onset: Rapid; occurs within 4 to 6 hours of ingestion (Ref).
Risk factors:
• Dose; generally greater with higher doses (Ref)
• Concurrent medications: Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) and other tricyclic compounds (eg, cyclobenzaprine, promethazine), other opioids, monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), anorectics, neuroleptics, drugs that reduce the seizure threshold, and/or drugs that impair metabolism of tramadol (eg, CYP2D6 and 3A4 inhibitors)
• CYP2D6 poor metabolizers (Ref)
• History of seizure disorder
• Patients otherwise at risk for seizures (ie, alcohol withdrawal, CNS infections, head trauma)
Life-threatening serotonin syndrome has been reported after therapeutic and supratherapeutic doses of tramadol (Ref). Risk is increased when tramadol is administered in combination with agents that increase its plasma concentrations (eg, CYP2D6 and CYP3A4 inhibitors) and with other serotonergic agents. However, it has been reported after tramadol monotherapy; more often observed in the setting of overdose (Ref). Serotonin syndrome may be reversible with medical intervention (Ref).
Mechanism: Excessive serotonin concentrations at the synaptic cleft and/or inhibition of tramadol metabolism leading to increased tramadol concentrations (Ref).
Onset: Varied; may occur within several hours to days after administration or may present later.
Risk factors:
• Concurrent use of serotonergic medications: Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), triptans, etc. (Ref)
• Concurrent use of CYP2D6 and/or CYP3A4 inhibitors (Ref)
• CYP2D6 poor metabolizers (Ref)
• Age >65 years (Ref)
Physical dependence, manifesting as a withdrawal syndrome, has been observed after abrupt discontinuation of tramadol (Ref). Reported symptoms are consistent with both opioid and serotonin withdrawal (Ref). Withdrawal symptoms may occur after several days or longer therapy durations. Withdrawal symptoms usually resolve within 2 to 7 days (Ref).
Mechanism: Withdrawal; autonomic hyperexcitability in the absence of opioid agonist suppressive effects (Ref); reduced availability of serotonin (Ref).
Onset: Rapid; symptom onset typically occurs within 24 hours of discontinuing tramadol therapy and usually resolves within 2 to 7 days (Ref).
Risk factors:
• Abrupt discontinuation of tramadol in physically dependent patients
• Concurrent use of opioid mixed agonist/antagonists, opioid partial agonists, or naloxone (Ref)
• Duration of use (potential risk factor) (Ref)
• Higher doses (Ref)
The following adverse drug reactions and incidences are derived from product labeling unless otherwise specified.
>10%:
Gastrointestinal: Constipation (9% to 21%; placebo: 4%), dyspepsia, nausea (15% to 26%), xerostomia (5% to 13%)
Nervous system: Dizziness (10% to 23%; placebo: 5% to 7%), drowsiness (7% to 16%; placebo: 2% to 4%), headache (12% to 23%; placebo: 11% to 20%), vertigo
1% to 10%:
Cardiovascular: Chest pain (1% to <5%), flushing (8% to 10%), hypertension (1% to <5%), orthostatic hypotension (≤4%), peripheral edema (<5%), vasodilation (1% to <5%)
Dermatologic: Dermatitis (1% to <5%), diaphoresis (2% to 7%), pruritus (3% to 9%), skin rash (1% to <5%)
Endocrine & metabolic: Hot flash (1% to <5%), hyperglycemia (1% to <5%), weight loss (1% to <5%)
Gastrointestinal: Abdominal pain (1% to <5%; upper abdominal pain: 1% to <5%), anorexia (1% to 6%), decreased appetite (1% to <5%), diarrhea (7% to 9%), flatulence (<5%), vomiting (5% to 10%)
Genitourinary: Menopausal symptoms (1% to <5%), pelvic pain (1% to <5%), prostatic disease (1% to <5%), urinary frequency (<5%), urinary retention (<5%), urinary tract infection (1% to <5%)
Nervous system: Agitation (<5%), anxiety (1% to <5%), apathy (1% to <5%), ataxia (1% to <5%), chills (1% to <5%), confusion (1% to <5%), depersonalization (1% to <5%), depression (1% to <5%), euphoria (<5%), falling (1% to <5%), hypertonia (<5%), hypoesthesia (1% to <5%), insomnia (5% to 9%), lethargy (1% to <5%), malaise (<5%), nervousness (1% to <5%), paresthesia (1% to <5%), restlessness (1% to <5%), rigors (1% to <5%), sleep disorder (<5%), withdrawal syndrome (<5%)
Neuromuscular & skeletal: Arthralgia (1% to <5%), asthenia (4% to 9%), back pain (1% to <5%), increased creatine phosphokinase in blood specimen (1% to <5%), limb pain (1% to <5%), myalgia (<5%), neck pain (1% to <5%), tremor (<5%)
Ophthalmic: Blurred vision (1% to <5%), miosis (1% to <5%)
Respiratory: Bronchitis (1% to <5%), cough (1% to <5%), dyspnea (1% to <5%), flu-like symptoms (1% to <5%), nasal congestion (1% to <5%), nasopharyngitis (1% to <5%), pharyngitis (1% to <5%), rhinitis (1% to <5%), rhinorrhea (1% to <5%), sinusitis (1% to <5%), sneezing (1% to <5%), upper respiratory tract infection (1% to <5%)
Miscellaneous: Accidental injury (<5%), fever (1% to <5%)
<1%:
Cardiovascular: Acute myocardial infarction, hypotension, ischemic heart disease, lower extremity edema, palpitations, peripheral ischemia, syncope, tachycardia
Dermatologic: Cellulitis, cold and clammy skin, ecchymoses, night sweats, piloerection, skin vesicle, Stevens-Johnson syndrome (Mockenhaupt 2008), toxic epidermal necrolysis (Mockenhaupt 2008), urticaria
Endocrine & metabolic: Decreased libido, gout, increased gamma-glutamyl transferase, menstrual disease
Gastrointestinal: Appendicitis, cholecystitis, cholelithiasis, dysgeusia, gastroenteritis, pancreatitis
Genitourinary: Cystitis, dysuria, hematuria
Hematologic & oncologic: Anemia, bruise
Nervous system: Abnormal dreams, cognitive dysfunction, disorientation, emotional lability, hallucination, irritability, lack of concentration, migraine, sedated state, seizure (Memarian 2018), serotonin syndrome (Shakoor 2014), suicidal tendencies, yawning
Neuromuscular & skeletal: Hyperkinetic muscle activity, joint stiffness, lower limb cramp, muscle cramps, muscle spasm, muscle twitching, neck stiffness
Otic: Otitis, tinnitus
Respiratory: Pneumonia
Frequency not defined:
Hypersensitivity: Angioedema
Neuromuscular & skeletal: Muscle spasticity
Respiratory: Bronchospasm
Postmarketing:
Cardiovascular: Prolonged QT interval on ECG, pulmonary embolism, torsades de pointes
Dermatologic: Erythema multiforme (Sanchez-Gonzalez 2020)
Endocrine & metabolic: Adrenocortical insufficiency (Debono 2011), hypoglycemia (within 30 days of initiation [Fournier 2015, Odonkor 2016]; may occur more often in patients with predisposing risk factors [eg, diabetes] and may result in hospitalization), hyponatremia
Gastrointestinal: Gastrointestinal hemorrhage, stomatitis
Genitourinary: Proteinuria
Hepatic: Hepatic failure, hepatitis
Hypersensitivity: Anaphylaxis (<0.1%) (Mori 2015)
Nervous system: Delirium (Agrawal 2009, Kunig 2006)
Neuromuscular & skeletal: Femoral neck fracture (Wei 2020)
Ophthalmic: Cataract, mydriasis (Makris 2012)
Otic: Deafness
Respiratory: Pulmonary edema, respiratory depression (Hassanian-Moghaddam 2013)
Hypersensitivity (eg, anaphylaxis) to tramadol, opioids, or any component of the formulation; pediatric patients <12 years of age; postoperative management in pediatric patients <18 years of age who have undergone tonsillectomy and/or adenoidectomy; significant respiratory depression; acute or severe bronchial asthma in the absence of appropriately monitored settings and/or resuscitative equipment; GI obstruction, including paralytic ileus (known or suspected); concomitant use with or within 14 days following monoamine oxidase inhibitor therapy.
Canadian products: Additional contraindications (not in US labeling): (Note: Contraindications may differ between product labeling; refer also to product labeling): Severe renal impairment (CrCl <30 mL/minute), severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh class C); mild, intermittent, or short-duration pain that can be managed with other pain medication; management of perioperative pain; status asthmaticus, chronic obstructive airway, acute respiratory depression, hypercapnia, cor pulmonale, delirium tremens, seizure disorder, severe CNS depression, increased cerebrospinal or intracranial pressure, brain tumor, head injury, suspected surgical abdomen (eg, acute appendicitis or pancreatitis); acute intoxication with ethanol, hypnotics, centrally acting analgesics, opioids, or psychotropic drugs; breastfeeding, pregnancy; use during labor and delivery.
Concerns related to adverse effects:
• Hypotension: May cause severe hypotension (including orthostatic hypotension and syncope); use with caution in patients with hypovolemia, cardiovascular disease (including acute myocardial infarction [MI]), or drugs that may exaggerate hypotensive effects (including phenothiazines or general anesthetics). Monitor for symptoms of hypotension following initiation or dose titration. Avoid use in patients with circulatory shock.
Disease-related concerns:
• Abdominal conditions: May obscure diagnosis or clinical course of patients with acute abdominal conditions.
• Adrenocortical insufficiency: Use with caution in patients with adrenal insufficiency, including Addison disease. Long-term opioid use may cause secondary hypogonadism, which may lead to mood disorders and osteoporosis (Brennan 2013).
• Biliary tract impairment: Use caution in patients with biliary tract dysfunction or acute pancreatitis; opioids may cause spasm of the sphincter of Oddi.
• CNS depression/coma: Avoid use in patients with impaired consciousness or coma as these patients are susceptible to intracranial effects of CO2 retention.
• Diabetes: Use with caution in patients with diabetes; tramadol may cause hypoglycemia.
• Delirium tremens: Use with caution in patients with delirium tremens.
• Head trauma: Use with extreme caution in patients with head injury, intracranial lesions, or elevated intracranial pressure (ICP); exaggerated elevation of ICP may occur.
• Hepatic impairment: Use with caution; dosage adjustments may be required. ER formulations should not be used in severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh class C).
• Mental health conditions: Use opioids with caution for chronic pain in patients with mental health conditions (eg, depression, anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder) due to increased risk for opioid use disorder and overdose; more frequent monitoring is recommended (CDC [Dowell 2016]).
• Obesity: Use with caution in patients who are morbidly obese.
• Prostatic hyperplasia/urinary stricture: Use with caution in patients with prostatic hyperplasia and/or urinary stricture.
• Psychosis: Use with caution in patients with toxic psychosis.
• Renal impairment: Use with caution; reduce dosage of IR formulations in patients with severe renal impairment; ER formulations should be avoided in severe renal impairment.
• Respiratory disease: Use with caution and monitor for respiratory depression in patients with significant chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or cor pulmonale, and those with a substantially decreased respiratory reserve, hypoxia, hypercapnia, or preexisting respiratory depression, particularly when initiating and titrating therapy; critical respiratory depression may occur, even at therapeutic dosages. Consider the use of alternative nonopioid analgesics in these patients.
• Sleep-related disorders: Opioid use increases the risk for sleep-related disorders (eg, central sleep apnea [CSA], hypoxemia) in a dose-dependent fashion. Use with caution for chronic pain and titrate dosage cautiously in patients with risk factors for sleep-disordered breathing (eg, heart failure, obesity). Consider dose reduction in patients presenting with CSA. Avoid opioids in patients with moderate to severe sleep-disordered breathing (CDC [Dowell 2016]).
• Suicide risk: Avoid use in patients who are suicidal; use with caution in patients taking tranquilizers and/or antidepressants, or those with an emotional disturbance including depression. Consider the use of alternative nonopioid analgesics in these patients.
• Thyroid dysfunction: Use with caution in patients with thyroid dysfunction.
Special populations:
• CYP2D6 "poor metabolizers": Poor metabolizers have decreased metabolism of tramadol to its active metabolite, which may diminish analgesia; avoid the use of tramadol and consider alternatives that are not metabolized by CYP2D6 (CPIC [Crews 2021]).
• CYP2D6 "ultrarapid metabolizers": Ultrarapid metabolizers have increased metabolism of tramadol to its active metabolite, which may increase the risk of toxicity; avoid the use of tramadol and consider alternatives that are not metabolized by CYP2D6 (CPIC [Crews 2021]). The occurrence of this phenotype is seen in ~1% to 2% of East Asian patients (Chinese, Japanese, Korean), 1% to 10% of Caucasian patients, 3% to 4% of Black patients, and may be >10% in certain racial/ethnic groups (ie, Oceanian, Northern African, Middle Eastern, Ashkenazi Jewish, and Puerto Rican patients). Deaths have also occurred in breastfeeding infants after being exposed to high concentrations of morphine because the mothers were ultrarapid metabolizers of codeine.
• Older adult: Use opioids for chronic pain with caution in older adults; monitor closely due to an increased potential for risks, including certain risks such as falls/fracture, cognitive impairment, and constipation. Clearance may also be reduced in older adults (with or without renal impairment) resulting in a narrow therapeutic window and increasing the risk for respiratory depression or overdose (CDC [Dowell 2016]). Consider the use of alternative nonopioid analgesics in these patients.
• Pediatric: Respiratory depression:Risk factors include conditions associated with hypoventilation, such as postoperative status, obstructive sleep apnea, obesity, severe pulmonary disease, neuromuscular disease, and concomitant use of other medications that cause respiratory depression.
Other warnings/precautions:
• Abuse/misuse/diversion: Use with caution in patients with a history of drug abuse or acute alcoholism; potential for drug dependency exists. Other risk factors associated with increased risk include a personal or family history of substance use disorder or mental illness (eg, major depression).
• Appropriate use: Chronic pain (outside of end-of-life or palliative care, active cancer treatment, sickle cell disease, or medication-based opioid use disorder treatment) in outpatient setting in adults: Opioids should not be used as first-line therapy for chronic pain management (pain >3-month duration or beyond time of normal tissue healing) due to limited short-term benefits, undetermined long-term benefits, and association with serious risks (eg, overdose, MI, auto accidents, risk of developing opioid use disorder). Preferred management includes nonpharmacologic therapy and nonopioid therapy (eg, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, acetaminophen, certain antiseizure and antidepressant medications). If opioid therapy is initiated, it should be combined with nonpharmacologic and nonopioid therapy, as appropriate. Prior to initiation, known risks of opioid therapy should be discussed and realistic treatment goals for pain/function should be established, including consideration for discontinuation if benefits do not outweigh risks. Therapy should be continued only if clinically meaningful improvement in pain/function outweighs risks. Therapy should be initiated at the lowest effective dosage using IR opioids (instead of ER/long-acting opioids). Risk associated with use increases with higher opioid dosages. Risks and benefits should be re-evaluated when increasing dosage to ≥50 MME/day orally; dosages ≥90 MME/day orally should be avoided unless carefully justified (CDC [Dowell 2016]).
• Naloxone access: Discuss the availability of naloxone with all patients who are prescribed opioid analgesics, as well as their caregivers, and consider prescribing it to patients who are at increased risk of opioid overdose. These include patients who are also taking benzodiazepines or other CNS depressants, have an opioid use disorder (OUD) (current or history of), have experienced a previous opioid overdose, have a history of a substance use disorder, or have higher opioid dosages (≥50 morphine milligram equivalents [MME]/day orally) (CDC [Dowell 2016]). Additionally, health care providers should consider prescribing naloxone to patients prescribed medications to treat OUD; patients at risk of opioid overdose even if they are not taking an opioid analgesic or medication to treat OUD; and patients taking opioids, including methadone or buprenorphine for OUD, if they have household members, including children, or other close contacts at risk for accidental ingestion or opioid overdose. Inform patients and caregivers on options for obtaining naloxone (eg, by prescription, directly from a pharmacist, a community-based program) as permitted by state dispensing and prescribing guidelines. Educate patients and caregivers on how to recognize respiratory depression, proper administration of naloxone, and getting emergency help.
• Optimal regimen: An opioid-containing analgesic regimen should be tailored to each patient's needs and based upon the type of pain being treated (acute versus chronic), the route of administration, degree of tolerance for opioids (naive versus chronic user), age, weight, and medical condition. The optimal analgesic dose varies widely among patients; doses should be titrated to pain relief/prevention.
• Surgery: Opioids decrease bowel motility; monitor for decrease bowel motility in postop patients receiving opioids. Use with caution in the perioperative setting; individualize treatment when transitioning from parenteral to oral analgesics.
In April 2017, the FDA announced tramadol use should be avoided in all pediatric patients <12 years and all pediatric patients undergoing tonsillectomy or adenoidectomy. The FDA is requiring updated manufacturer labeling to include in the following contraindications: Use in patients <12 years to treat pain and use in patients <18 years to treat postoperative tonsillectomy/adenoidectomy pain (FDA 2017).
Substrate of CYP2B6 (minor), CYP2D6 (major), CYP3A4 (major); Note: Assignment of Major/Minor substrate status based on clinically relevant drug interaction potential
Note: Interacting drugs may not be individually listed below if they are part of a group interaction (eg, individual drugs within “CYP3A4 Inducers [Strong]” are NOT listed). For a complete list of drug interactions by individual drug name and detailed management recommendations, use the Lexicomp drug interactions program by clicking on the “Launch drug interactions program” link above.
Ajmaline: May increase the serum concentration of CYP2D6 Substrates (High risk with Inhibitors). Risk C: Monitor therapy
Alizapride: May enhance the CNS depressant effect of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Almotriptan: May enhance the serotonergic effect of Serotonergic Agents (High Risk). This could result in serotonin syndrome. Management: Monitor for signs and symptoms of serotonin syndrome/serotonin toxicity (eg, hyperreflexia, clonus, hyperthermia, diaphoresis, tremor, autonomic instability, mental status changes) when these agents are combined. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Alvimopan: Opioid Agonists may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Alvimopan. This is most notable for patients receiving long-term (i.e., more than 7 days) opiates prior to alvimopan initiation. Management: Alvimopan is contraindicated in patients receiving therapeutic doses of opioids for more than 7 consecutive days immediately prior to alvimopan initiation. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Amifampridine: Agents With Seizure Threshold Lowering Potential may enhance the neuroexcitatory and/or seizure-potentiating effect of Amifampridine. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Amphetamines: May enhance the analgesic effect of Opioid Agonists. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Amphetamines: May enhance the serotonergic effect of Serotonergic Agents (High Risk). This could result in serotonin syndrome. Management: Monitor for signs and symptoms of serotonin syndrome/serotonin toxicity (eg, hyperreflexia, clonus, hyperthermia, diaphoresis, tremor, autonomic instability). Initiate amphetamines at lower doses, monitor frequently, and adjust doses as needed. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Androgens: May enhance the hypoglycemic effect of Agents with Blood Glucose Lowering Effects. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Anticholinergic Agents: May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Opioid Agonists. Specifically, the risk for constipation and urinary retention may be increased with this combination. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Antidiabetic Agents: May enhance the hypoglycemic effect of Hypoglycemia-Associated Agents. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Antiemetics (5HT3 Antagonists): May enhance the serotonergic effect of TraMADol. Management: Monitor for signs and symptoms of serotonin syndrome/serotonin toxicity (eg, hyperreflexia, clonus, hyperthermia, diaphoresis, tremor, autonomic instability, mental status changes) when these agents are combined. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Artemether and Lumefantrine: May increase the serum concentration of CYP2D6 Substrates (High risk with Inhibitors). Risk C: Monitor therapy
Azelastine (Nasal): May enhance the CNS depressant effect of CNS Depressants. Risk X: Avoid combination
Blonanserin: CNS Depressants may enhance the CNS depressant effect of Blonanserin. Management: Use caution if coadministering blonanserin and CNS depressants; dose reduction of the other CNS depressant may be required. Strong CNS depressants should not be coadministered with blonanserin. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Brimonidine (Topical): May enhance the CNS depressant effect of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Bromopride: May enhance the CNS depressant effect of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Bromperidol: May enhance the CNS depressant effect of CNS Depressants. Risk X: Avoid combination
BuPROPion: May enhance the neuroexcitatory and/or seizure-potentiating effect of Agents With Seizure Threshold Lowering Potential. Risk C: Monitor therapy
BusPIRone: May enhance the serotonergic effect of Serotonergic Agents (High Risk). This could result in serotonin syndrome. Management: Monitor for signs and symptoms of serotonin syndrome/serotonin toxicity (eg, hyperreflexia, clonus, hyperthermia, diaphoresis, tremor, autonomic instability, mental status changes) when these agents are combined. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Cannabinoid-Containing Products: CNS Depressants may enhance the CNS depressant effect of Cannabinoid-Containing Products. Risk C: Monitor therapy
CarBAMazepine: TraMADol may enhance the CNS depressant effect of CarBAMazepine. TraMADol may diminish the therapeutic effect of CarBAMazepine. CarBAMazepine may decrease the serum concentration of TraMADol. Risk X: Avoid combination
Chlormethiazole: May enhance the CNS depressant effect of CNS Depressants. Management: Monitor closely for evidence of excessive CNS depression. The chlormethiazole labeling states that an appropriately reduced dose should be used if such a combination must be used. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Chlorphenesin Carbamate: May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Clofazimine: May increase the serum concentration of CYP3A4 Substrates (High risk with Inhibitors). Risk C: Monitor therapy
CNS Depressants: May enhance the CNS depressant effect of Opioid Agonists. Management: Avoid concomitant use of opioid agonists and benzodiazepines or other CNS depressants when possible. These agents should only be combined if alternative treatment options are inadequate. If combined, limit the dosages and duration of each drug. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
CYP2D6 Inhibitors (Moderate): May decrease serum concentrations of the active metabolite(s) of TraMADol. CYP2D6 Inhibitors (Moderate) may increase the serum concentration of TraMADol. Risk C: Monitor therapy
CYP2D6 Inhibitors (Strong): May decrease serum concentrations of the active metabolite(s) of TraMADol. CYP2D6 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of TraMADol. Risk C: Monitor therapy
CYP3A4 Inducers (Moderate): May decrease the serum concentration of TraMADol. Risk C: Monitor therapy
CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong): May decrease the serum concentration of TraMADol. Risk C: Monitor therapy
CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Moderate): May increase serum concentrations of the active metabolite(s) of TraMADol. CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Moderate) may increase the serum concentration of TraMADol. Risk C: Monitor therapy
CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong): May increase serum concentrations of the active metabolite(s) of TraMADol. CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of TraMADol. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Dapoxetine: May enhance the serotonergic effect of Serotonergic Agents (High Risk). This could result in serotonin syndrome. Management: Do not use serotonergic agents (high risk) with dapoxetine or within 7 days of serotonergic agent discontinuation. Do not use dapoxetine within 14 days of monoamine oxidase inhibitor use. Dapoxetine labeling lists this combination as contraindicated. Risk X: Avoid combination
Daridorexant: May enhance the CNS depressant effect of CNS Depressants. Management: Dose reduction of daridorexant and/or any other CNS depressant may be necessary. Use of daridorexant with alcohol is not recommended, and the use of daridorexant with any other drug to treat insomnia is not recommended. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Desmopressin: Opioid Agonists may enhance the hyponatremic effect of Desmopressin. Risk C: Monitor therapy
DexmedeTOMIDine: CNS Depressants may enhance the CNS depressant effect of DexmedeTOMIDine. Management: Monitor for increased CNS depression during coadministration of dexmedetomidine and CNS depressants, and consider dose reductions of either agent to avoid excessive CNS depression. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Dexmethylphenidate-Methylphenidate: May enhance the serotonergic effect of Serotonergic Agents (High Risk). This could result in serotonin syndrome. Management: Monitor for signs and symptoms of serotonin syndrome/serotonin toxicity (eg, hyperreflexia, clonus, hyperthermia, diaphoresis, tremor, autonomic instability, mental status changes) when these agents are combined. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Dextromethorphan: May enhance the serotonergic effect of Serotonergic Agents (High Risk). This could result in serotonin syndrome. Management: Monitor for signs and symptoms of serotonin syndrome/serotonin toxicity (eg, hyperreflexia, clonus, hyperthermia, diaphoresis, tremor, autonomic instability, mental status changes) when these agents are combined. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Difelikefalin: May enhance the CNS depressant effect of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Digoxin: TraMADol may increase the serum concentration of Digoxin. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Dimethindene (Topical): May enhance the CNS depressant effect of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Diuretics: Opioid Agonists may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Diuretics. Opioid Agonists may diminish the therapeutic effect of Diuretics. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Droperidol: May enhance the CNS depressant effect of CNS Depressants. Management: Consider dose reductions of droperidol or of other CNS agents (eg, opioids, barbiturates) with concomitant use. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
DULoxetine: May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of TraMADol. The risk for serotonin syndrome/serotonin toxicity and seizures may be increased with this combination. DULoxetine may diminish the therapeutic effect of TraMADol. Management: Monitor for signs and symptoms of serotonin syndrome/serotonin toxicity (eg, hyperreflexia, clonus, hyperthermia, diaphoresis, tremor, autonomic instability, mental status changes), reduced tramadol effectiveness and seizures if these agents are combined. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Eletriptan: May enhance the serotonergic effect of Serotonergic Agents (High Risk). This could result in serotonin syndrome. Management: Monitor for signs and symptoms of serotonin syndrome/serotonin toxicity (eg, hyperreflexia, clonus, hyperthermia, diaphoresis, tremor, autonomic instability, mental status changes) when these agents are combined. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Eluxadoline: Opioid Agonists may enhance the constipating effect of Eluxadoline. Risk X: Avoid combination
Ergot Derivatives: May enhance the serotonergic effect of Serotonergic Agents (High Risk). This could result in serotonin syndrome. Management: Monitor for signs and symptoms of serotonin syndrome/serotonin toxicity (eg, hyperreflexia, clonus, hyperthermia, diaphoresis, tremor, autonomic instability, mental status changes) when these agents are combined. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Fexinidazole: May increase the serum concentration of CYP3A4 Substrates (High risk with Inhibitors). Risk X: Avoid combination
Flunarizine: CNS Depressants may enhance the CNS depressant effect of Flunarizine. Risk X: Avoid combination
Flunitrazepam: CNS Depressants may enhance the CNS depressant effect of Flunitrazepam. Management: Reduce the dose of CNS depressants when combined with flunitrazepam and monitor patients for evidence of CNS depression (eg, sedation, respiratory depression). Use non-CNS depressant alternatives when available. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Fusidic Acid (Systemic): May increase the serum concentration of CYP3A4 Substrates (High risk with Inhibitors). Risk X: Avoid combination
Gastrointestinal Agents (Prokinetic): Opioid Agonists may diminish the therapeutic effect of Gastrointestinal Agents (Prokinetic). Risk C: Monitor therapy
Herbal Products with Glucose Lowering Effects: May enhance the hypoglycemic effect of Hypoglycemia-Associated Agents. Risk C: Monitor therapy
HydrOXYzine: May enhance the CNS depressant effect of CNS Depressants. Management: Consider a decrease in the CNS depressant dose, as appropriate, when used together with hydroxyzine. Increase monitoring of signs/symptoms of CNS depression in any patient receiving hydroxyzine together with another CNS depressant. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Hypoglycemia-Associated Agents: May enhance the hypoglycemic effect of other Hypoglycemia-Associated Agents. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Iobenguane Radiopharmaceutical Products: TraMADol may diminish the therapeutic effect of Iobenguane Radiopharmaceutical Products. Management: Discontinue all drugs that may inhibit or interfere with catecholamine transport or uptake for at least 5 biological half-lives before iobenguane administration. Do not administer tramadol until at least 7 days after each iobenguane dose. Risk X: Avoid combination
Iohexol: Agents With Seizure Threshold Lowering Potential may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Iohexol. Specifically, the risk for seizures may be increased. Management: Discontinue agents that may lower the seizure threshold 48 hours prior to intrathecal use of iohexol. Wait at least 24 hours after the procedure to resume such agents. In nonelective procedures, consider use of prophylactic antiseizure drugs. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Iomeprol: Agents With Seizure Threshold Lowering Potential may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Iomeprol. Specifically, the risk for seizures may be increased. Management: Discontinue agents that may lower the seizure threshold 48 hours prior to intrathecal use of iomeprol. Wait at least 24 hours after the procedure to resume such agents. In nonelective procedures, consider use of prophylactic antiseizure drugs. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Iopamidol: Agents With Seizure Threshold Lowering Potential may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Iopamidol. Specifically, the risk for seizures may be increased. Management: Discontinue agents that may lower the seizure threshold 48 hours prior to intrathecal use of iopamidol. Wait at least 24 hours after the procedure to resume such agents. In nonelective procedures, consider use of prophylactic antiseizure drugs. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Kava Kava: May enhance the CNS depressant effect of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Kratom: May enhance the CNS depressant effect of CNS Depressants. Risk X: Avoid combination
Lemborexant: May enhance the CNS depressant effect of CNS Depressants. Management: Dosage adjustments of lemborexant and of concomitant CNS depressants may be necessary when administered together because of potentially additive CNS depressant effects. Close monitoring for CNS depressant effects is necessary. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Linezolid: May enhance the serotonergic effect of Serotonergic Opioids (High Risk). This could result in serotonin syndrome. Management: Consider alternatives to this drug combination. If combined, monitor for signs and symptoms of serotonin syndrome/serotonin toxicity (eg, hyperreflexia, clonus, hyperthermia, diaphoresis, tremor, autonomic instability, mental status changes). Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Lisuride: May enhance the CNS depressant effect of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Lofexidine: May enhance the CNS depressant effect of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Lorcaserin (Withdrawn From US Market): May enhance the serotonergic effect of Serotonergic Agents (High Risk). This could result in serotonin syndrome. Management: Monitor for signs and symptoms of serotonin syndrome/serotonin toxicity (eg, hyperreflexia, clonus, hyperthermia, diaphoresis, tremor, autonomic instability, mental status changes) when these agents are combined. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Magnesium Sulfate: May enhance the CNS depressant effect of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Maitake: May enhance the hypoglycemic effect of Agents with Blood Glucose Lowering Effects. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Methotrimeprazine: CNS Depressants may enhance the CNS depressant effect of Methotrimeprazine. Methotrimeprazine may enhance the CNS depressant effect of CNS Depressants. Management: Reduce the usual dose of CNS depressants by 50% if starting methotrimeprazine until the dose of methotrimeprazine is stable. Monitor patient closely for evidence of CNS depression. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Methylene Blue: May enhance the serotonergic effect of Serotonergic Opioids (High Risk). This could result in serotonin syndrome. Management: Consider alternatives to this drug combination. If combined, monitor for signs and symptoms of serotonin syndrome/serotonin toxicity (eg, hyperreflexia, clonus, hyperthermia, diaphoresis, tremor, autonomic instability, mental status changes). Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Metoclopramide: May enhance the CNS depressant effect of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Metoclopramide: May enhance the serotonergic effect of Serotonergic Agents (High Risk). This could result in serotonin syndrome. Management: Consider monitoring for signs and symptoms of serotonin syndrome/serotonin toxicity (eg, hyperreflexia, clonus, hyperthermia, diaphoresis, tremor, autonomic instability, mental status changes) when these agents are combined. Risk C: Monitor therapy
MetyroSINE: CNS Depressants may enhance the sedative effect of MetyroSINE. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Minocycline (Systemic): May enhance the CNS depressant effect of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (Antidepressant): May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of TraMADol. Specifically, the risk for serotonin syndrome/serotonin toxicity and seizures may be increased.. Risk X: Avoid combination
Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (Type B): Serotonergic Opioids (High Risk) may enhance the serotonergic effect of Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (Type B). This could result in serotonin syndrome. Risk X: Avoid combination
Nalfurafine: Opioid Agonists may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Nalfurafine. Opioid Agonists may diminish the therapeutic effect of Nalfurafine. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Nalmefene: May diminish the therapeutic effect of Opioid Agonists. Management: Avoid the concomitant use of oral nalmefene and opioid agonists. Discontinue oral nalmefene 1 week prior to any anticipated use of opioid agonists. If combined, larger doses of opioid agonists will likely be required. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Naltrexone: May diminish the therapeutic effect of Opioid Agonists. Management: Seek therapeutic alternatives to opioids. See full drug interaction monograph for detailed recommendations. Risk X: Avoid combination
Nefazodone: May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of TraMADol. Specifically, the risk for serotonin syndrome/serotonin toxicity and seizures may be increased. Nefazodone may increase the serum concentration of TraMADol. Management: Monitor for signs and symptoms of serotonin syndrome/serotonin toxicity (eg, hyperreflexia, clonus, hyperthermia, diaphoresis, tremor, autonomic instability, mental status changes), seizures, and tramadol adverse effects when these agents are combined. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Olopatadine (Nasal): May enhance the CNS depressant effect of CNS Depressants. Risk X: Avoid combination
Ondansetron: May enhance the serotonergic effect of TraMADol. This could result in serotonin syndrome. Ondansetron may diminish the therapeutic effect of TraMADol. Management: Monitor for signs and symptoms of serotonin syndrome/serotonin toxicity (eg, hyperreflexia, clonus, hyperthermia, diaphoresis, tremor, autonomic instability, mental status changes) and diminished tramadol efficacy when these agents are combined. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Opioids (Mixed Agonist / Antagonist): May diminish the analgesic effect of Opioid Agonists. Management: Seek alternatives to mixed agonist/antagonist opioids in patients receiving pure opioid agonists, and monitor for symptoms of therapeutic failure/high dose requirements (or withdrawal in opioid-dependent patients) if patients receive these combinations. Risk X: Avoid combination
Orphenadrine: CNS Depressants may enhance the CNS depressant effect of Orphenadrine. Risk X: Avoid combination
Oxitriptan: Serotonergic Agents (High Risk) may enhance the serotonergic effect of Oxitriptan. This could result in serotonin syndrome. Management: Monitor for signs and symptoms of serotonin syndrome/serotonin toxicity (eg, hyperreflexia, clonus, hyperthermia, diaphoresis, tremor, autonomic instability, mental status changes) when these agents are combined. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Oxomemazine: May enhance the CNS depressant effect of CNS Depressants. Risk X: Avoid combination
Oxybate Salt Products: CNS Depressants may enhance the CNS depressant effect of Oxybate Salt Products. Management: Consider alternatives to this combination when possible. If combined, dose reduction or discontinuation of one or more CNS depressants (including the oxybate salt product) should be considered. Interrupt oxybate salt treatment during short-term opioid use Risk D: Consider therapy modification
OxyCODONE: CNS Depressants may enhance the CNS depressant effect of OxyCODONE. Management: Avoid concomitant use of oxycodone and benzodiazepines or other CNS depressants when possible. These agents should only be combined if alternative treatment options are inadequate. If combined, limit the dosages and duration of each drug. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Ozanimod: May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Serotonergic Agents (High Risk). Risk C: Monitor therapy
Paraldehyde: CNS Depressants may enhance the CNS depressant effect of Paraldehyde. Risk X: Avoid combination
Peginterferon Alfa-2b: May decrease the serum concentration of CYP2D6 Substrates (High risk with Inhibitors). Peginterferon Alfa-2b may increase the serum concentration of CYP2D6 Substrates (High risk with Inhibitors). Risk C: Monitor therapy
Pegvisomant: Opioid Agonists may diminish the therapeutic effect of Pegvisomant. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Pegvisomant: May enhance the hypoglycemic effect of Agents with Blood Glucose Lowering Effects. Risk C: Monitor therapy
PHENobarbital: May enhance the CNS depressant effect of TraMADol. PHENobarbital may decrease the serum concentration of TraMADol. Management: Avoid use of tramadol and phenobarbital when possible. Monitor for respiratory depression/sedation. Because phenobarbital is also a strong CYP3A4 inducer, monitor for decreased tramadol efficacy and withdrawal if combined. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Piribedil: CNS Depressants may enhance the CNS depressant effect of Piribedil. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Pramipexole: CNS Depressants may enhance the sedative effect of Pramipexole. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Primidone: May enhance the CNS depressant effect of TraMADol. Primidone may decrease the serum concentration of TraMADol. Management: Avoid use of tramadol and primidone when possible. Monitor for respiratory depression/sedation. Because primidone is also a strong CYP3A4 inducer, monitor for decreased tramadol efficacy and withdrawal if combined. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Procarbazine: May enhance the CNS depressant effect of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Prothionamide: May enhance the hypoglycemic effect of Agents with Blood Glucose Lowering Effects. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Quinolones: May enhance the hypoglycemic effect of Agents with Blood Glucose Lowering Effects. Quinolones may diminish the therapeutic effect of Agents with Blood Glucose Lowering Effects. Specifically, if an agent is being used to treat diabetes, loss of blood sugar control may occur with quinolone use. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Ramosetron: Opioid Agonists may enhance the constipating effect of Ramosetron. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Ropeginterferon Alfa-2b: CNS Depressants may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Ropeginterferon Alfa-2b. Specifically, the risk of neuropsychiatric adverse effects may be increased. Management: Avoid coadministration of ropeginterferon alfa-2b and other CNS depressants. If this combination cannot be avoided, monitor patients for neuropsychiatric adverse effects (eg, depression, suicidal ideation, aggression, mania). Risk D: Consider therapy modification
ROPINIRole: CNS Depressants may enhance the sedative effect of ROPINIRole. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Rotigotine: CNS Depressants may enhance the sedative effect of Rotigotine. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Rufinamide: May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of CNS Depressants. Specifically, sleepiness and dizziness may be enhanced. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Salicylates: May enhance the hypoglycemic effect of Agents with Blood Glucose Lowering Effects. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Samidorphan: May diminish the therapeutic effect of Opioid Agonists. Risk X: Avoid combination
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors: TraMADol may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors. Specifically, the risk for serotonin syndrome/serotonin toxicity and seizures may be increased. Management: Monitor for signs and symptoms of serotonin syndrome/serotonin toxicity (eg, hyperreflexia, clonus, hyperthermia, diaphoresis, tremor, autonomic instability, mental status changes) and seizures when these agents are combined. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (Strong CYP2D6 Inhibitors): May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of TraMADol. Specifically, the risk for serotonin syndrome/serotonin toxicity and seizures may be increased. Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (Strong CYP2D6 Inhibitors) may diminish the therapeutic effect of TraMADol. Management: Monitor for signs and symptoms of serotonin syndrome/serotonin toxicity (eg, hyperreflexia, clonus, hyperthermia, diaphoresis, tremor, autonomic instability, mental status changes), seizures, and decreased tramadol efficacy when these agents are combined. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Serotonergic Agents (High Risk, Miscellaneous): Serotonergic Opioids (High Risk) may enhance the serotonergic effect of Serotonergic Agents (High Risk, Miscellaneous). This could result in serotonin syndrome. Management: Monitor for signs and symptoms of serotonin syndrome/serotonin toxicity (eg, hyperreflexia, clonus, hyperthermia, diaphoresis, tremor, autonomic instability, mental status changes) if these agents are combined. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Serotonergic Non-Opioid CNS Depressants: May enhance the CNS depressant effect of Serotonergic Opioids (High Risk). Serotonergic Non-Opioid CNS Depressants may enhance the serotonergic effect of Serotonergic Opioids (High Risk). This could result in serotonin syndrome. Management: Consider alternatives to this drug combination. If combined, monitor for signs and symptoms of serotonin syndrome/serotonin toxicity and CNS depression. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Serotonergic Opioids (High Risk): May enhance the CNS depressant effect of TraMADol. Serotonergic Opioids (High Risk) may enhance the serotonergic effect of TraMADol. This could result in serotonin syndrome. Management: Consider alternatives to this drug combination. If combined, monitor for signs and symptoms of serotonin syndrome/serotonin toxicity and CNS depression. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Serotonin 5-HT1D Receptor Agonists (Triptans): May enhance the serotonergic effect of Serotonergic Agents (High Risk). This could result in serotonin syndrome. Management: Monitor for signs and symptoms of serotonin syndrome/serotonin toxicity (eg, hyperreflexia, clonus, hyperthermia, diaphoresis, tremor, autonomic instability, mental status changes) when these agents are combined. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Serotonin/Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors: May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of TraMADol. Specifically, the risk for serotonin syndrome/serotonin toxicity and seizures may be increased. Management: Monitor for signs and symptoms of serotonin syndrome/serotonin toxicity (eg, hyperreflexia, clonus, hyperthermia, diaphoresis, tremor, autonomic instability, mental status changes) and seizures when these agents are combined. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Sincalide: Drugs that Affect Gallbladder Function may diminish the therapeutic effect of Sincalide. Management: Consider discontinuing drugs that may affect gallbladder motility prior to the use of sincalide to stimulate gallbladder contraction. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Sodium Phosphates: Agents With Seizure Threshold Lowering Potential may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Sodium Phosphates. Specifically, the risk of seizure or loss of consciousness may be increased in patients with significant sodium phosphate-induced fluid or electrolyte abnormalities. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Somatostatin Analogs: Opioid Agonists may diminish the analgesic effect of Somatostatin Analogs. Opioid Agonists may enhance the analgesic effect of Somatostatin Analogs. Risk C: Monitor therapy
St John's Wort: May enhance the serotonergic effect of TraMADol. This could result in serotonin syndrome. St John's Wort may decrease the serum concentration of TraMADol. Management: Monitor for signs and symptoms of serotonin syndrome/serotonin toxicity and reduced tramadol effects (including withdrawal symptoms) when combined. Monitor for increased tramadol effects if St John's wort is discontinued. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Succinylcholine: May enhance the bradycardic effect of Opioid Agonists. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Suvorexant: CNS Depressants may enhance the CNS depressant effect of Suvorexant. Management: Dose reduction of suvorexant and/or any other CNS depressant may be necessary. Use of suvorexant with alcohol is not recommended, and the use of suvorexant with any other drug to treat insomnia is not recommended. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Syrian Rue: May enhance the serotonergic effect of Serotonergic Agents (High Risk). This could result in serotonin syndrome. Management: Monitor for signs and symptoms of serotonin syndrome/serotonin toxicity (eg, hyperreflexia, clonus, hyperthermia, diaphoresis, tremor, autonomic instability, mental status changes) when these agents are combined. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Thalidomide: CNS Depressants may enhance the CNS depressant effect of Thalidomide. Risk X: Avoid combination
Tricyclic Antidepressants: May enhance the CNS depressant effect of Serotonergic Opioids (High Risk). Serotonergic Opioids (High Risk) may enhance the serotonergic effect of Tricyclic Antidepressants. This could result in serotonin syndrome. Management: Consider alternatives to this drug combination. If combined, monitor for signs and symptoms of serotonin syndrome/serotonin toxicity and CNS depression. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Valerian: May enhance the CNS depressant effect of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Vitamin K Antagonists (eg, warfarin): TraMADol may enhance the anticoagulant effect of Vitamin K Antagonists. Risk C: Monitor therapy
Zolpidem: CNS Depressants may enhance the CNS depressant effect of Zolpidem. Management: Reduce the Intermezzo brand sublingual zolpidem adult dose to 1.75 mg for men who are also receiving other CNS depressants. No such dose change is recommended for women. Avoid use with other CNS depressants at bedtime; avoid use with alcohol. Risk D: Consider therapy modification
Long-term opioid use may cause secondary hypogonadism, which may lead to sexual dysfunction or infertility in men and women (Brennan 2013).
Premature ejaculation may contribute to male infertility. Tramadol may be an alternative treatment for this condition; however, due to the risk of addiction and adverse effects associated with opioid use, it should only be used in patients who have experienced treatment failure with other therapies (ISSM [Althof 2014]; Martyn-St. James 2015).
Tramadol crosses the placenta.
According to some studies, maternal use of opioids may be associated with birth defects (including neural tube defects, congenital heart defects, and gastroschisis), poor fetal growth, stillbirth, and preterm delivery (CDC [Dowell 2016]).
[US Boxed Warning]: Prolonged use of tramadol during pregnancy can result in neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome, which may be life-threatening if not recognized and treated, and requires management according to protocols developed by neonatology experts. If opioid use is required for a prolonged period in a pregnant woman, advise the patient of the risk of neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome and ensure that appropriate treatment will be available. If chronic opioid exposure occurs in pregnancy, adverse events in the newborn (including withdrawal) may occur (Chou 2009). Symptoms of neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS) following opioid exposure may be autonomic (eg, fever, temperature instability), gastrointestinal (eg, diarrhea, vomiting, poor feeding/weight gain), or neurologic (eg, high-pitched crying, hyperactivity, increased muscle tone, increased wakefulness/abnormal sleep pattern, irritability, sneezing, seizure, tremor, yawning) (Dow 2012; Hudak 2012). Mothers who are physically dependent on opioids may give birth to infants who are also physically dependent. Opioids may cause respiratory depression and psycho-physiologic effects in the neonate; newborns of mothers receiving opioids during labor should be monitored.
Tramadol is not commonly used to treat pain during labor and immediately postpartum (ACOG 209 2019) or chronic noncancer pain in pregnant women or those who may become pregnant (CDC [Dowell 2016]; Chou 2009).
Tramadol and the active M1 metabolite are present in breast milk. M1 has stronger opioid activity than tramadol. Actual exposure to a breastfeeding infant may depend on the mothers CYP2D6 metabolism (Salman 2011).
Tramadol is not recommended for use in breastfeeding women. Due to the potential for serious adverse events in the breastfed infant (including excess sedation and respiratory depression), use during breastfeeding is not recommended by the manufacturer. Nonopioid analgesics are preferred for breastfeeding females who require pain control peripartum or for surgery outside of the postpartum period (ABM [Martin 2018]; ABM [Reece-Stremtan 2017]). When opioids are needed in breastfeeding women, the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration of time should be used to limit adverse events in the mother and breastfeeding infant. In general, a single occasional dose of an opioid analgesic may be compatible with breastfeeding (WHO 2002). Breastfeeding women using opioids for postpartum pain or for the treatment of chronic maternal pain should monitor their infants for drowsiness, sedation, feeding difficulties, or limpness (ACOG 209 2019). Withdrawal symptoms may occur when maternal use is discontinued or breastfeeding is stopped.
Pain relief, respiratory and mental status/alertness (especially in patients on concomitant CNS depressants, including benzodiazepines), blood pressure, heart rate; blood glucose if hypoglycemia is suspected; signs/symptoms of hyponatremia (eg, confusion, disorientation) especially during initiation of therapy; bowel function; signs/symptoms of tolerance, addiction, abuse, misuse, or suicidal ideation; signs or symptoms of hypogonadism or hypoadrenalism (Brennan 2013); signs and symptoms of serotonin syndrome such as mental status changes (eg, agitation, hallucinations, coma), autonomic instability (eg, tachycardia, labile BP, hyperthermia), neuromuscular changes (eg, hyperreflexia, incoordination), and/or GI symptoms (eg, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea); signs and symptoms of neonatal withdrawal syndrome in infants born to mothers using opioids during pregnancy (eg. irritability, hyperactivity and abnormal sleep pattern, high pitched cry, tremor, vomiting, diarrhea and failure to gain weight); during discontinuation of therapy monitor pain control, withdrawal symptoms, mood changes, suicidal ideation, and for use of other substances.
Alternate recommendations: Chronic pain (long-term therapy outside of end-of-life or palliative care, active cancer treatment, sickle cell disease, or medication-based opioid use disorder treatment): Evaluate benefits/risks of opioid therapy within 1 to 4 weeks of treatment initiation and with dose increases. Re-evaluate benefits/risks every 3 months during therapy or more frequently in patients at increased risk of overdose or opioid use disorder. Urine drug testing is recommended prior to initiation and re-checking should be considered at least yearly (includes controlled prescription medications and illicit drugs of abuse). State prescription drug monitoring program (PDMP) data should be reviewed by clinicians prior to initiation and periodically during therapy (frequency ranging from every prescription to every 3 months) (CDC [Dowell 2016]).
100 to 300 ng/mL; however, serum level monitoring is not required
Tramadol and its active metabolite (M1) binds to μ-opiate receptors in the CNS causing inhibition of ascending pain pathways, altering the perception of and response to pain; also inhibits the reuptake of norepinephrine and serotonin, which are neurotransmitters involved in the descending inhibitory pain pathway responsible for pain relief (Grond 2004)
Onset of action: Immediate release: Within 1 hour; Peak effect: 2 to 3 hours
Distribution: Vd: IV: 2.6 L/kg (males); 2.9 L/kg (females)
Protein binding, plasma: ~20%
Metabolism: Extensively hepatic via demethylation (mediated by CYP3A4 and CYP2D6), glucuronidation, and sulfation; has pharmacologically active metabolite formed by CYP2D6 (M1; O-desmethyl tramadol)
Bioavailability:
Immediate release: ~75%
Extended release: ~85% to 95% (as compared to immediate release)
Half-life elimination:
Immediate release: 6.3 ± 1.4 hours; active metabolite (M1): 7.4 ± 1.4 hours; prolonged in elderly
Extended-release:
Capsules: ~10 hours; active metabolite (M1): ~11 hours
Tablets: ~7.9 hours; active metabolite (M1): 8.8 hours.
Time to peak, plasma:
Immediate release: ~2 hours; active metabolite (M1): 3 hours
Extended release: ~4 to 12 hours; active metabolite (M1): ~5 to 15 hours
Excretion: Urine (~30% as unchanged drug; 60% as metabolites)
Altered kidney function: Decreased rate and extent of excretion.
Hepatic function impairment:
Immediate release: Metabolism is reduced in advanced cirrhosis, resulting in increased AUC and increased elimination half-life (13 hours [tramadol], 19 hours [M1]).
Extended release: Exposure is decreased ~50% with increased severity of hepatic impairment.
Older adult: Maximum serum concentration is increased and elimination half-life prolonged.
Sex:
Immediate release: Women had a 12% higher peak tramadol concentration and a 35% higher area under the curve (AUC) compared to men.
Extended release: AUC were somewhat higher in females than in males.
Note: Concentrations of tramadol were ~20% higher in “poor metabolizers” versus “extensive metabolizers,” while M1 concentrations were 40% lower.
Capsule ER 24 Hour Therapy Pack (ConZip Oral)
100 mg (per each): $14.77
200 mg (per each): $19.35
300 mg (per each): $26.77
Capsule ER 24 Hour Therapy Pack (traMADol HCl ER Oral)
100 mg (per each): $9.18
200 mg (per each): $12.04
300 mg (per each): $16.65
Solution (Qdolo Oral)
5 mg/mL (per mL): $1.48
Solution (traMADol HCl Oral)
5 mg/mL (per mL): $2.38
Tablet, 24-hour (traMADol HCl ER (Biphasic) Oral)
100 mg (per each): $4.71
200 mg (per each): $7.78
300 mg (per each): $10.86
Tablet, 24-hour (traMADol HCl ER Oral)
100 mg (per each): $3.64
200 mg (per each): $6.02
300 mg (per each): $10.14
Tablets (traMADol HCl Oral)
50 mg (per each): $0.17 - $1.80
100 mg (per each): $1.93
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