If you are suffering from a moderate to severe level of pain, you may be prescribed a medication called Ultram. It is sometimes prescribed to individuals who suffer from chronic pain in their joints or after being diagnosed with cancer. Another possible use is to help anyone who is experiencing severe pain after having a surgical procedure. Ultram belongs to the class of drugs called opiate analgesics, and it is used to decrease a person’s pain level.
If you are experiencing pain from post-surgery, an injury or any other physical condition, you should discuss the possibility of taking Ultram with your doctor. The drug contains codeine and Tylenol so you may suffer an allergic reaction to those ingredients. Before taking Ultram, you should also talk to your doctor if you have allergies to oxycodone, morphine, hydrocodone, hydromorphone, corn, propoxyphene or meperidine.
Because Ultram is very addictive, it should only be prescribed to help patients manage short-term pain. You should also take the medication only as prescribed. If possible, your doctor may prescribe a different type of pain treatment rather than Ultram to decrease the possibility of you becoming addicted to the medication.
You need to advise your doctor if you’re currently taking any other prescription or non-prescription medication, including vitamins, herbal products or nutritional supplements before taking Ultram. Certain medications such as aspirin can cause problematic interactions with Ultram. That’s why you need to tell your doctor about every over-the-counter or prescription medication you are taking.
It’s very important to note that you should not drink any alcoholic beverages when you take Ultram. This pain reliever may not be a wise choice if you have a history of diabetes, cranial-related problems, kidney, lung or liver disease or alcoholism.
There are possible side effects from taking Ultram. The more common ones include shakiness, blurry vision, heartburn, constipation, dry mouth, flushing, mood swings, anxiety, muscle tightness, headaches, nausea, weakness, dizziness, weakness, indigestion, vomiting, drowsiness, sweating and nervousness.
You may also suffer more serious side effects. These can include flu-like symptoms, swelling of certain body parts, itching, hallucinations, rapid heartbeat, seizures, a rash, hoarseness, changes in urination or trouble swallowing or breathing, hives or unusual sores on your face. Talk to your doctor about any prior medical condition that may increase the possibility of the above side effects. If you do experience any unusual or persistent symptoms, be sure to seek immediate medical attention.