Tramadol dosages are dependent on various factors, including severity of pain, toleration of the medication and possible underlying conditions. Prescribers will therefore always start prescriptions at a low dosage and increase as necessary, rather than the other way around.
Tramadol comes in many forms and can be used to treat various conditions and situations, from backaches to post operation pain management. Instant release capsules provide immediate relief and are suited to short-term, acute pain management. Extended release tablets are better suited to control discomfort over the course of 24 hours for as long as needed.
Tramadol is an opioid, which means it can be highly addictive, and is therefore not suitable for long term use. It is safe to use, however, as long as instructions are properly followed.
- Powerful opioid based painkiller
- Instant or sustained relief
- Tramadol Hydrochloride (HCL) is the active ingredient
- Can come in the form of capsules, tablets, liquids, gels and effervescents
- Used for a myriad of conditions
- Should be titrated (slowly increased in strength) as needed from the lowest dosage except for in severe cases
Types Of Tramadol
Tramadol is a highly effective pain killer that comes in various forms. The type of the medication will depend on the variety and severity of the pain experienced. For this reason there are a wide range of methods to suit each case, from immediate release, lower dosage capsules and effervescent tablets to SR (Sustained Release) tablets that are effective over a longer period of time.
Forms of Tramadol include:
- IR – Immediate Release
- MR – Modified Release (12 or 24 Hour)
- Effervescent
- Gels
- Solution – Intravenous Injection (Tramadol IV)
- SC – Subcutaneous
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IR – Tramadol for Immediate Release
Tramadol is a strong medication that works in the system extremely quickly. Such immediate pain relief can be accessed through the various forms of the medication, but is typically taken orally with a tablet. Usually this will be of the lowest dosage to begin with, with the dose increased as needed. This will depend on the severity of the pain. Immediate release Tramadol capsules can be administered over a short period of time for acute cases and post surgery discomfort. For chronic pain, extended release forms are better suited. Immediate Release Tramadol should be taken as needed, but no more than every 4 to 6 hours and never more than 400mgs over the course of 24 hours.
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MR – Tramadol for Modified Release (12 or 24 Hours)
Sometimes referred to as SR (Sustained Release) – PR (Prolonged Release) or ER (Extended Release), this form of Tramadol is better suited to cases where pain is an ongoing problem in the medium term. Unlike the immediate release tablets and capsules, extended is not fast acting, so might not be suitable for those in extreme discomfort. Over the longer term, however, the long lasting nature and spread out effects of the medication are better useful for specific situations. These include severe back pain and non-long term relief from arthritis. Modified Release tablets can be taken no more than once every 12 or 24 hours, which will depend on the dosage, requirements of pain management and where in the course of the treatment you are. It is essential to follow the instructions from a healthcare professional so as to avoid any issues with this medication.
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Tramadol Effervescent Tablets
Tramadol effervescent tablets are essentially the same form of IR – Immediate Release capsules or tablets described earlier, although sometimes the dose/strength can differ. Effervescent tablets are sometimes mixed with paracetamol, which is known to enhance its effectiveness, but essentially the main advantage is for those who have trouble swallowing tablets or capsules. They are usually the immediate release form of the medication and at the minimum strength of 50mgs.
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Tramadol Gels
Gels are not a common method of application for Tramadol, although they are fairly widespread within veterinary practice. This is not to say that Tramadol gel does not have its uses in pain killing for humans however. New back and neck pain relief gels containing mixed doses of Tramadol with other topical painkillers and anti-inflammatory products have been shown to be highly effective in some cases.
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Solutions – Intravenous Injections (Tramadol IV)
Tramadol can be administered intravenously by a healthcare professional, usually via a diluted solution. Tramadol liquid for IV or injections are not available to buy legally and should never be used outside a hospital, as the effects of the medication can be vastly magnified when used in this form.
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Tramadol for SC – Subcutaneous
The Subcutaneous Tramadol method of administration is an injection of the medication under the skin with a short needle. The injection itself does not go into the vein so it is not as fast working as an intravenous injection, but is safer and effective quicker than a standard capsule or tablet. This is a common way of managing pain relief for patients in accident and emergency wards who are in acute pain. Typically the subcutaneous injection is most effective for musculoskeletal injuries.
Tramadol Dose And Strength
Being such a powerful medication, getting the correct dosage of Tramadol means erring on the side of caution at all times. For this reason the practice of titration, whereby the dosage is increased as needed, in a safe and controlled way.
The smallest dosage of each Tramadol tablet is 50mg, although half tablets are common for less severe cases, which can be increased as described above. For IR (Immediate Release) capsules, the strongest Tramadol dosage is 100mg, as the medication floods the system as quickly as possible, providing instant pain relief. For ER (Extended Relief) tablets, stronger doses are available, up to 200mg, which are then released over a 12-24 hour period.
Effervescent tablets, gels and injections may differ in strength due to their method of administration, so you should always carefully follow the instructions provided to you by a health care professional.
HD (Hydrocodone) Vs HCL (Hydrochloride)
Tramadol Hydrochloride (HCL), which is the active ingredient in Tramadol, is not the same medication as Hydrocodone (HD) and the two should never be mixed or taken in close proximity. While both medications have similar effects, they block pain message from the body to the brain, they are metabolised in different ways and at separate rates, which is partly why they should not be used within a certain time period.
As with many opioid medications, both, Hydrocodone and Hydrochloride, have similar side effects, but they occur at different rates. This is dependent on dosage and length of use. Tramadol (HCL) tends to be the much cheaper option, which is partly why it is the more widely used of the two. This is not to say that Tramadol is in any way less effective, or that it has worse side effects. Each individual reacts uniquely to any medication, so while Hydrocodone might be more effective, and better tolerated for some, others might find Tramadol Hydrochloride the better option.
Tramadol Dosages Available
There are several strengths and types of Tramadol you can buy online, which are also available in various volumes. It is firstly important to ascertain whether the medication is right for your condition and circumstances, as well as which version of you require.
Tramadol Hydrochloride is available in the following forms and dosages:
50mgs Instant Release
- Tramadol 20 capsules
- Tramadol 50 capsules
- Tramadol 100 capsules
- Mandolgin Effervescent 15 tablets
- Mandolgin 20 capsules
- Mandolgin 50 capsules
- Mandolgin 110 capsules
- Tradolan 20 tablets
- Tradolan 100 tablets
- Actavis 20 capsules
- Actavis 50 capsules
- Actavis 100 capsules
- Nobligan 100 capsules
- Nobligan 200 capsules
Instant Release 100mgs
- Mandolgin 30 capsules
- Mandolgin 100 capsules
Extended Release 100mgs
- Mandolgin Retard 20 tablets
- Mandolgin Retard 100 tablets
- Tramadol Retard 20 tablets
- Tramadol Retard 100 tablets
- Tradolan Retard 20 tablets
- Tradolan Retard 100 tablets
- Actavis Retard 20 tablets
- Actavis Retard 100 tablets
- Nobligan Retard 100 tablets
Extended Release 150mgs
- Tramadol 20 tablets
- Tradolan 20 tablets
- Mandolgin 20 tablets
Extended Release 200mgs
- Tramadol 20 tablets
- Tradolan 20 tablets
Choosing The Right Tramadol Dosage
Tramadol is a powerful medication and must be used with caution at all times. It is essential that you never exceed the dosage recommended by your health care professional and that you discuss and manage the treatment should any changes be required.
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Immediate Release Dosages of Tramadol
For immediate release treatments, a smaller dosage of Tramadol is typically prescribed, sometimes as low as 25mgs. This can then be increased on a needs must basis. Each dose should be taken at intervals of 4-6 hours, with no more than a total of 400mgs a day, whichever strength of the medication you have been prescribed.
Over the course of a few days, this might be increased to 50mgs if the required effect has not been met. Over the medium term this may occasionally warrant the strength to be increased to 100mgs, but such maintenance dosages are not recommended over the long term as Tramadol Hydrochloride can be highly addicitve.
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Sustained Release Dosages of Tramadol
Modified release Tramadol dosages are a little more complex and need to be well thought out due their lasting effects in the system. The maximum sustained release dose over a 24-hour period is 300mgs, so starting at the lowest dosage, 100mgs to be taken once a day, is the most common practice. This can be increased by increments of 100mgs per dose, but some patients do find the more powerful doses more difficult to tolerate.
It is important to note that you should never mix the two types of Tramadol medications, instant and extended release, as this can increase the risk of overdose.
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Tramadol Dosages For Children And The Elderly
Tramadol Hydrochloride (HCL) is generally not prescribed for use in children under the age of 17, although under some circumstances a doctor may believe the symptoms are severe enough to warrant it.
For the elderly there are no specific instructions regarding Tramadol use. Some medical conditions, which are more common for those over 65, may make the Tramadol unsuitable.
Patients with liver disease or renal function impairment will likely receive smaller doses, often limited to 50mgs per dose and a maximum dosage of 100-200mgs over the course of 24 hours. This will depend on the severity of the pain and how serious the underlying condition is.
Tramadol Dosage FAQs
Tramadol Hydrochloride, the active ingredient in Tramadol, is an opioid. This means it can be addictive and comes with some inherent risks. It is therefore important to ensure that you take the medication with great care.
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What Should I Do If I Forget To Take a Tramadol Dosage?
Taking less of an dosage than you need is rarely a bad thing regarding Tramadol, other than the increase discomfort you might feel in terms of pain. If you are not experiencing pain after missing your dosage, it is an indication that Tramadol is no longer required. It is very important that you do not take a higher dosage, or an extra one, to make up for the missed treatment.
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What Should I Do If I Take Too High A Dosage Of Tramadol?
Taking too high a dosage of Tramadol can lead to an overdose, which can be fatal. If you think you have taken too much you should contact the emergency services immediately. Symptoms of a possible Tramadol overdose include sluggish breathing, a decreased heart rate, a loss of consciousness and damp skin that is cold to the touch.
Tramadol Dosage Summary And Further Information
Tramadol Hydrochloride is a highly effective painkiller, but as an opioid it does come with some risks. If you follow the instructions properly, however, you should experience little or no issues. While side effects are common, they are easily managed and minimised with sensible use. Contraindications are well researched, so any issues in this area can be avoided before treatment begins. You can order Tramadol online and find out more information about this medication by clicking here.
Sources:
- http://www.netdoctor.co.uk/medicines/aches-and-pains/a7804/tramadol-zydol/
- https://mri.cts-mrp.eu/download/NL_H_0890_003_FinalPL.pdf
- https://patient.info/medicine/tramadol-for-pain-relief-mabron-tilodol-zamadol
- https://www.drugs.com/tramadol.html
- https://www.drugs.com/answers/whats-the-difference-between-er-sr-cr-tablet-336159.html
- https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=6d3b4049-2bfd-4874-b984-8fb231bff27c
- http://www.healthline.com/health/subcutaneous-injection#what-is-a-subcutaneous-injection1
- http://drugsdetails.com/tramadol-vs-hydrocodone/
- https://www.drugs.com/dosage/tramadol.html
- http://www.medicinesforchildren.org.uk/tramadol-pain