subject: Tramadol and cancer pain management [print this page] Tramadol and cancer pain management Tramadol and cancer pain management
Cancer pain control
According to the World Health Organization guidelines for cancer pain management, Tramadol has been considered as safe and effective Step II analgesic. Tramadol is also known as "centrally-acting opioid analgesic" that works in the central nervous system and acts like morphine in the body to relieve pain. Mild-to-moderate cancer pain can be controlled with Tramadol alone or in combination with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Tramadol works by improving the transmission of chemical messages in your brain and spinal cord. Serotonin and norepinephrine are the two chemical messengers that work as a bridge between two nerve cells for transmission of messages. Tramadol inhibits the reuptake of these chemical messengers in nerve cells and thus allow messages to be transmitted without any interference. This improves pain-reducing effects and enhances mood lightening effects. Tramadol also activates the spinal pain inhibitory system to get effective pain relief treatment.
Tramadol dosage
Tramadol can be taken in two formulations, for extended release or for immediate release. For immediate release, a dose of 50mg and for extended release, doses of 100mg, 200mg, and 300mg are advised. Extended release doses are used for chronic pain and long-term treatment. Tramadol used for extended release should be taken as whole tablets and should not be split or crushed before taking them. The dosage instructions for this medication should be followed according to your doctor's recommendation to prevent any side effects. The dose of Tramadol depends on the factors such as your age, your medical condition, other medications, and how your response to Tramadol.
Precautions before taking Tramadol
You should not take Tramadol, if you are allergic to any of its ingredients. Also, avoid this medication if you have a history of drug or alcohol addiction. Tramadol can have drug interactions, so if you are taking any other medications, you should inform your doctor in advance. You should also talk with your doctor, if you are suffering from any health condition, such as, seizures, liver disease, kidney disease, lung disease, and allergies.
Apart from its mild-to-moderate side effects, Tramadol is considered as one of the most tolerated pain medications. The side-effects are temporary in nature and can be avoided if used according to a doctor. It has been found that Tramadol can improve the overall health of a person over a period of time. It improves functions of the muscles and stiffness, in addition to pain relief. Ultracet is another analgesic used for short-term treatment of moderate-to-severe pain. It is a combination of two pain-relieving agents Tramadol and acetaminophen.
