Tramadol is a prescription opioid pain reliever used to treat moderate to severe pain. It is available in immediate-release and extended-release formulations. Tramadol is typically taken orally, but it can also be administered intravenously or rectally. The usual starting dose of tramadol is 50 mg, taken every 4 to 6 hours as needed for pain. The dose may be gradually increased as needed to control pain, but the maximum daily dose should not exceed 400 mg. Tramadol can cause side effects, including nausea, vomiting, constipation, drowsiness, dizziness, and headache. More serious side effects, such as seizures, respiratory depression, and coma, can occur if tramadol is taken in high doses or in combination with other drugs that depress the central nervous system. Tramadol is a Schedule IV controlled substance, meaning that it has a potential for abuse and dependence. People who are taking tramadol should be monitored for signs of addiction, such as taking the drug in larger doses or more often than prescribed, or continuing to take the drug even when it is no longer needed.

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