OVERVIEW

Tramadol Course is organized by NurseCe4less.

Statement of Learning Need:
Although tramadol is considered a weak opioid, it can lead to significant sedation and other physical side effects. Patients with comorbid diseases, such as hepatic and renal failure, may need dosing adjustments as well as close monitoring. Tramadol has helpful analgesic properties, however clinicians need to remember that it has other actions, such as serotoninnoradrenaline reuptake inhibition that can lead to a serious side effect of serotonin syndrome.

Course Purpose:
To inform health clinicians of the indications, uses, contraindications and potential side effects of tramadol.

Course Summary:
In comparison to opioids like hydromorphone and morphine, tramadol is sometimes called a weak opioid and is a Schedule IV drug, however tramadol can lead to a substance use disorder and cause serious morbidities and death. Tramadol should be used cautiously because it can cause sedation and other physical side effects. Dosing adjustments should be made for patients with hepatic and renal conditions and, when given in patients with comorbid hepatic and renal disease, ongoing monitoring of patient response and progress needs to be done. Tramadol should be avoided or used with caution in patients with a history of a mental illness and history or risk of a substance use disorder. Although said to be a weak opioid, tramadol use disorder is a real risk and it can be a dangerous drug when taken in overdose.