Tramadol Abuse Problem

Tramadol is a synthetic pain analgesic that is prescribed to treat moderate to severe pain. It is similar to morphine in the way it inhibits the brain’s ability to transmit the sensation of pain. Tramadol can be abused if it is taken more often or in higher doses than prescribed by a doctor. If Tramadol is abused, it is likely that the body will develop a physical dependency on the drug, leading to addiction. Addiction to Tramadol is in full-swing when a person relies on regular doses of it to avoid painful tramadol withdrawal symptoms.

Warning Signs of Tramadol Abuse

Though Tramadol is thought to be less addictive than other painkillers, such as morphine or Oxycodone, any long-term use of Tramadol can lead to abuse and addiction. Intentionally taking doses of Tramadol higher than what is prescribed by a doctor is abuse. A person developing a physical dependency to Tramadol will require increasingly higher doses, causing him or her to seek out alternate supplies of Tramadol. Doctor shopping is the process of obtaining multiple prescriptions from different doctors. Many Tramadol addicts explore this as a means of procuring the high number of pills necessary to feed their dependency.

Like any medication, Tramadol can have side effects. Long-term use and a continually increasing dosage can increase the frequency and severity of these side effects. In extreme cases, Tramadol abuse has the potential to cause seizures and severe liver damage. Other side effects of Tramadol include the following:

• Depression
• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Irregular heartbeat
• Respiratory problems

Tramadol Withdrawal Symptoms

The fear of experiencing withdrawal is what drives most Tramadol abusers to keep using the drug. As the body builds up a tolerance to Tramadol, higher amounts of the drug must be taken to fend off withdrawal symptoms. The severity of withdrawal symptoms varies based one how long a person has been abusing Tramadol and how large a dose has been consistently taken. Depending on how much and how long it has been taken, tramadol detox may be necessary. If a long-term user of Tramadol were to suddenly stop taking it, they could experience any number of the following withdrawal symptoms:

• Anxiety
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Sweating
• Chills
• Diarrhea
• Hallucinations
• Insomnia
• Trouble breathing

A person who may be addicted to Tramadol should never stop using it without first consulting a doctor. A doctor may prescribe a different kind of painkiller and be able to wean a patient off medication altogether. In more severe instances, detox and residential rehab may be necessary.

Getting Help for Tramadol Abuse

Are you currently struggling with Tramadol abuse? If so, do not wait another minute to get help. We are available 24-hours a day to help you halt the dangerous path that can easily lead to addiction. Our number is toll-free, so there is no reason to not pick up the phone and call today. Get the help you need, we are waiting for your call.