Tramal 50mg Capsules

Tramadol is a strong painkiller from the opioid group. It works on the brain and nervous system to block pain signals, so you feel the pain less.

It is used for moderate to severe pain, sometimes when weaker painkillers have not helped. It may be needed for a short time, such as after an injury, or longer for some long-term conditions.

It comes as tablets, capsules, drops and, in hospital, an injection.

Take tramadol exactly as your doctor tells you. Never take more than prescribed, even if the pain is not fully controlled.

• Swallow standard tablets and capsules whole with water. Mix drops in a glass of water and drink it all.
• Slow-release tablets and capsules: swallow whole. Never break, crush, chew or suck them, as this could release the whole dose at once and cause an overdose.
• Space your doses evenly through the day.
• If you miss a dose, check the leaflet or ask your pharmacist. Never take two doses together.
• If you have taken it for more than a few weeks, do not stop suddenly. Your doctor will lower the dose slowly to avoid withdrawal symptoms.

Common side effects include:

• feeling sleepy, tired, dizzy or "spaced out"
• headache
• feeling or being sick
• constipation
• dry mouth, sweating, low energy

Call a doctor straight away if you:

• feel dizzy or weak, confused or very sleepy
• see or hear things that are not there
• have trouble peeing

Get emergency help if you have a fit, slow or shallow breathing, or swelling of the lips, mouth or throat.

Check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking it if you:

• have ever reacted badly to tramadol or other strong painkillers
• have epilepsy or fits, or a head injury
• have breathing problems
• have kidney or liver problems
• have had problems with alcohol, painkillers or recreational drugs
• take antidepressants, sleeping pills, anxiety or allergy medicines, warfarin, carbamazepine, ondansetron or rifampicin

Do not take tramadol with MAOI medicines (such as moclobemide, phenelzine, selegiline or rasagiline) or with codeine-containing painkillers.

Store as directed on the pack or leaflet, and keep it safely out of the sight and reach of children. Ask your pharmacist if you are unsure.

Addiction: tramadol can be addictive and your body can get used to it. Talk to your doctor if you are worried.

Alcohol and drugs: avoid alcohol, especially at first, as it increases drowsiness and serious side effects. Recreational drugs can cause dangerous reactions.

Driving: do not drive or use machines if you feel sleepy, dizzy or cannot concentrate.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding: use only if your doctor advises, ideally for a few days. Taken late in pregnancy, it can cause withdrawal in the newborn.