Tramadol

( Ultram )

Medically Reviewed by Dr. Harshi Dhingra, M.D.

Last Reviewed: Aug 04, 2022

Pros & Cons


Tramadol Pros and Cons

pros header.svg

  • Tramadol is an opioid pain medication and is effective in relieving moderate and moderately severe pain.
  • It is available in a low-cost generic form.
  • Tramadol does not cause as much constipation as some other opioid pain medications.

cons header.svg

  • Tramadol is a controlled substance and prescriptions are tracked by the federal government to prevent misuse and abuse.
  • Like other opioid pain relievers, tramadol can be habit-forming and carries a high risk of misuse, abuse, addiction, and overdose.
  • Tramadol can cause severe complications like respiratory depression (shallow breathing), seizures, and even death.