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Tramadol Drug Abuse

Tramadol is a prescription opioid pain reliever used to treat moderate to severe pain. Although it can be an effective medication when used correctly, it is also a highly addictive substance that is often abused. It can lead to severe health consequences, including addiction, overdose, and death.

  • It is a synthetic opioid medication. It is a centrally acting analgesic, which means it works by affecting the central nervous system to relieve pain. It binds to mu-opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord, as well as inhibiting the reuptake of serotonin and norepinephrine, which are neurotransmitters that play a role in pain perception. While it is less potent than many other opioids, it can still be habit-forming and has a potential for misuse and addiction. It is available only by prescription and should only be taken under the supervision of a healthcare professional.

It works by binding to opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord, which helps to reduce pain sensations throughout the body. This drug is classified as a Schedule IV controlled substance in the United States, which means that it has a lower potential for abuse and dependence compared to other opioids, but it can still be addictive and should be used with caution. It is important to only take it as prescribed by a doctor and to follow all instructions for safe use.

Methods

This prescription medication is available in several forms, including immediate-release tablets, extended-release tablets, and capsules. The drug can be taken orally or injected, and it is sometimes crushed and snorted for a more intense high. Some individuals abusing it by taking more than the prescribed dose or using it for non-medical purposes, such as to get high.

Demographics

According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, approximately 2 million people in the United States misused this drug in 2019. The majority of abusers were adults between the ages of 18 and 25. Additionally, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration reported that emergency department visits related to misuse increased from 11,000 in 2005 to 28,000 in 2011.

Overdose

An overdose can be life-threatening and may result in respiratory depression, seizures, coma, and death. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there were 4,571 overdose deaths involving this medication in the United States in 2019. Additionally, a study published in the journal Substance Abuse Treatment, Prevention, and Policy found that it was involved in 21.5% of opioid-related overdoses in Ohio between 2010 and 2016.

Brand names

This medicine is sold under various brand names, including Ultram. Ultram is the most commonly prescribed brand name. Ultram is available in immediate-release tablets and extended-release capsules. Immediate-release tablets are typically taken every four to six hours as needed for pain relief, while extended-release capsules are taken once a day for chronic pain.

  • Conzip is another brand name, which is an extended-release version of the drug. Conzip is typically prescribed for the treatment of chronic pain and is taken once a day.

Rybix ODT is a brand name that is designed to dissolve in the mouth without water. This form is used for the treatment of breakthrough pain in adults who are already taking other opioids for pain relief.

It is important to note it is a controlled substance and should only be taken under the supervision of a healthcare provider. Misuse can lead to addiction, overdose, and other serious health consequences. If you or someone you know is abusing it, seek help from a healthcare professional or addiction treatment provider.

Illegal acquisition

The cost of it on the street can vary depending on several factors, including the location, availability, and demand. In general, the cost on the street can range from $1 to $10 per pill, with some individuals paying even more for higher doses or extended-release formulations.

  • However, it is important to note that purchasing it on the street is illegal and can be dangerous.

Street drugs may be adulterated with other substances, which can increase the risk of overdose and other health complications. Additionally, buying drugs from unregulated sources can put individuals at risk of arrest and legal consequences.

  • It is a controlled substance in the United States, which means it is illegal to obtain without a prescription. However, it can be obtained illegally through various means, including purchasing the drug from a street dealer, stealing it from a friend or family member’s medicine cabinet, or obtaining it through fraudulent means, such as forging a prescription or doctor shopping.

It is always recommended to obtain prescription drugs from a licensed healthcare provider and to use them only as directed. If you or someone you know is struggling with misbuse, seek help from a healthcare professional or addiction treatment provider.

Detox and withdrawal

Detoxification, or detox, is the process of removing a substance from the body. Detox typically involves gradually reducing the dose of the drug over several days or weeks to minimize the severity of withdrawal symptoms. This process is usually done under medical supervision to ensure the safety of the individual undergoing detox.

Withdrawal symptoms can be uncomfortable and can include:

  • Anxiety
  • Agitation
  • Restlessness
  • Insomnia
  • Sweating
  • Muscle aches and pains
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Rapid heartbeat
  • High blood pressure
  • Dilated pupils

Withdrawal symptoms typically begin within a few hours to a few days after the last dose, depending on the individual’s level of dependence and the dosage of the drug they were taking. Withdrawal symptoms can last for several days or even weeks, depending on the severity of the addiction.

To minimize the discomfort of withdrawal, healthcare providers may prescribe medications to help manage symptoms. For example, medications such as clonidine and benzodiazepines can be used to reduce anxiety and agitation, while anti-diarrheal medications and over-the-counter pain relievers can help alleviate physical symptoms.

In addition to medication, behavioral therapies such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and contingency management (CM) may be used to help individuals overcome addiction and learn coping skills to manage cravings and avoid relapse.

Overall, detox and withdrawal can be challenging, but with the right medical supervision and support, it is possible to overcome addiction and achieve long-term recovery. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, seek help from a healthcare professional or addiction treatment provider.

Treatment

Abusing it can be difficult to overcome, but treatment is available. The first step in treatment is detoxification, which involves safely removing the drug from the body under medical supervision. Following detoxification, individuals may benefit from behavioral therapies, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy or contingency management, to address the underlying psychological factors that contribute to addiction.

Tramadol is a powerful prescription pain reliever that can be effective when used correctly, but it can also be highly addictive and dangerous when misused. Misuse can lead to addiction, overdose, and death. It is important to seek help. With the right treatment, it is possible to overcome addiction and achieve long-term recovery.