Effects of Ultram Use: Short-Term, Long-Term, Side Effects, and Treatment
Ultram (trade name: tramadol) is an opiate analgesic typically prescribed for pain that is moderate to moderately severe.
When introduced, it was regarded as having a very low potential for addiction; however, its incidence of abuse and dependency is on the rise.
Is Ultram Dangerous?
Tramadol was initially hailed as a safer pain treatment option. It was seen to be less potent than more typical opiate painkillers and, as a result, to have a lower abuse potential. However, the longer that the drug is on the market, the more that analysts worry.
Ultram has been abused on such a widespread scale that, in August 2014, the FDA placed tramadol on the controlled substances list as a Schedule IV substance, meaning that it does have abuse potential. This was done in an attempt to curb illicit use of the drug and to make it unlawful to be found in possession of Ultram without a prescription. In essence, Ultram has been found to be far more addictive and dangerous than previously thought.
Short-Term Effects of Ultram Use
Ultram produces a number of effects in the short term that users may like and become addicted to:
- Euphoria.
- Relaxation.
- Pain relief.
- Sleepiness.
Ultram Side Effects
It’s important to understand that the effects of Ultram are not all desirable. In fact, Ultram abuse can cause a range of negative side effects that include:
- Nausea and vomiting.
- Shallow breathing.
- Constipation.
- Convulsions
- Hyperthermia.
- Muscle pain and rigidity.
- Dizziness.
- Seizures.
Long-Term Effects of Ultram Use
The long-term effects of Ultram use—often brought on by abuse and by mixing it with other drugs—include:
- Seizures, which can lead to death, even while sleeping.
- Tolerance, as the user needs ever-larger doses to kill pain and feel euphoric.
- Ultram addiction, which indicates continual cravings for the drug and opioid withdrawal symptoms when not using.
Long-term effects of abuse and addiction to Ultram also follow the path of any addiction when it comes to social changes, such as:
- Strained relationships with family and friends.
- Financial hardship.
- Mood changes/suicidal thoughts.
- Decreased ability to function at work or school.
Don’t let addiction to Ultram ravage your life. You can get help before its too late. Call for free at to learn how to get into addiction treatment and begin your path to recovery.
Ultram Dependency
Tolerance in the body of the Ultram user has been clinically demonstrated. Abusers of the drug—and even regular users—can easily develop a strong desire to use it.
Those who develop Ultram dependence generally fall into three primary categories:
- Patients who have chronic pain.
- Those with a previous history of substance abuse.
- Healthcare professionals with access to the drug.
Many of these abusers might have begun to take tramadol quite innocently—needing it long term for legitimate medical reasons—and then built up a tolerance to it. When this happens, users take more and more to get the same effects and often become addicted as a result.
Quotes From Recovering Addicts
Recovery may seem far off to someone in the midst of a struggle with substance abuse, but it is possible and it happens every day. Read memorable quotes about addiction from those in recovery.
Ultram Withdrawal and Addiction Treatment
Kicking an Ultram addiction can be exceedingly difficult because of the physical and psychological elements of dependence/addiction. Users hoping to be free of dependency on Ultram should seek treatment in a controlled, professional setting with a large support network.
Ultram Detox and Withdrawal
Those who come off an Ultram addiction may wrestle with the following signs and symptoms of tramadol withdrawal:
Common Symptoms
- Sweating.
- Difficulty sleeping.
- Anxiety.
- Muscle and joint pain.
- Insomnia.
- Flu-like symptoms, such as nausea and diarrhea.
Serious Symptoms
- Hallucinations.
- Paranoia.
- Extreme anxiety.
- Panic attacks.
- Confusion.
- Numbness and tingling in extremities.
A medically supervised detox program can help you endure the the often difficult opioid withdrawal process by managing your withdrawal symptoms and keeping you as comfortable as possible so that you don’t turn back to using in order to escape the discomfort.
Ultram Addiction Treatment Programs
After detox, you’ll begin the real process of recovery, which generally involves rehab. This may take the form of inpatient rehabilitation or outpatient-based care. Each of these options will include some form of individualized and evidence-based therapy. You may also consider aftercare—such as admission to a sober living location or facility—to ensure that you have gained the skills and support necessary to continue your recovery after treatment ends.
The road to recovery can be long, but it will be made much easier with the help of a committed team surrounding you or a loved one. If you’re ready to stop suffering, call American Addiction Centers (AAC) free at to speak with someone who can help you find the care you are looking for.