Can You Overdose on Tramadol?

 

Yes. As with any drug, it is possible to overdose on tramadol if you take more than the recommended amount prescribed by your doctor. It is even possible to overdose on the minimum amount if your body is sensitive to the medication; therefore, it is always important to seek the advice from your doctor before taking tramadol. Your doctor may have to run tests to check for diseases like kidney, liver or stomach conditions that may be affected by the use of tramadol.

Tramadol is a type of pain reliever and should not be used while operating heavy machinery such as driving a car. Like codeine, it can cause drowsiness and impair your judgment; therefore, never take tramadol if you plan on using power tools or work at extreme heights.

Recommended Dosage

Dosage varies depending on the level of pain you experience. Patients over the age of 16 are recommended to take from 25 to 100 milligrams every four to six hours. However, the recommended daily dosage should not exceed 400 milligrams without the approval of your doctor.

Patients 65 and older are prescribed the same amounts; however, the maximum daily dosage should be limited to 300 milligrams unless otherwise approved by the doctor. Some patients may be more tolerant of the drug; therefore, the doctor may increase the dosage amount.

Although tramadol is a pain reliever, it is intended for people suffering from moderate to severe chronic pain, such as pain associated with fibromyalgia, severe arthritis, neuralgia and migraines. Do not take tramadol as a substitute for aspirin as this could cause a dependency to the drug.

Types of Overdose

Overdoses are normally done accidentally or intentionally; to keep from accidentally overdosing on tramadol, be sure to stick with the recommended dosage amount from your doctor, and keep the drug out of reach of children at all times. A child’s body may be more affected by the drug, and just one pill could lead to an overdose. Also, never increase the amount to make up for a missed dose -- doing so may lead to accidental overdose. Only your doctor should prescribe an increased amount of tramadol if you have missed a dose or if the recommended dosage has no affect.

To prevent an intentional overdose, it should be noted to your doctor if you have any history of drug abuse or mental illness. Inform your doctor if you have had a history of depression, anxiety or thoughts of suicide, as this could lead to an intentional overdose of tramadol. Tramadol has addictive properties and acts similar to codeine, so patients who have a history of drug abuse may become addicted to its effects.

While most people never experience side effects from taking tramadol, some symptoms may occur, such as skin redness, blisters, increased heart rate and nausea. If these symptoms occur, stop taking tramadol and contact your doctor right away. Although it may not be life threatening, you doctor may need to reevaluate whether or not you are a candidate for tramadol.

Overdose Side Effects

Side effects of an overdose are apparent and symptoms may include:

  • Slow heartbeat
  • Clammy skin
  • Slow breathing
  • Extreme drowsiness
  • Fainting

More serious side effects of a tramadol overdose include:

  • Cardiac arrest
  • Coma
  • Death

To prevent an overdose, only take the recommended amount of tramadol prescribed by your doctor. Never take an extra pill to make up for a missed dosage, and never stop taking tramadol suddenly as this could cause unpleasant withdrawal symptoms. If you or someone you know has overdosed on tramadol, contact 911 or Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222.