I know it's for pain but does it just numb you so you don't feel pain or does it ease the pain. For example: If you take it and lets just say someone cuts you would it hurt less?
How does tramadol work?
Question posted by AMF22 on 10 Jan 2013
Last updated on 11 January 2013 by Delila
Answers
Hi, i also found this explanation of how Tramadol work helpful;
"Tramadol hydrochloride (Ultram®) is a prescription medication used to treat moderate to moderately severe pain in adults. It is classified as a centrally acting opioid analgesic. This means that tramadol works in the central nervous system (the brain and spinal cord), acts much like morphine in the body, and relieves pain. Much like morphine, tramadol binds to certain opioid receptors in the body known as μ ("mu") receptors.
Tramadol also works in a similar manner as some antidepressant medications by inhibiting the reuptake of certain brain chemicals (serotonin and norepinephrine). These are two of several chemicals used to send messages from one nerve cell to another. As a message travels down a nerve, it causes the end of the cell to release serotonin or norepinephrine. The serotonin or norepinephrine enters the gap between the first nerve cell and the one next to it. When enough serotonin or norepinephrine reaches the second nerve cell, it activates receptors on the cell and the message continues on its way. The first cell then quickly absorbs any serotonin or norepinephrine that remains in the gap between cells. This is called "reuptake."
It binds to the opiate receptors in the brain. It doesn't numb you, it decreases your perception of pain. It would probably hurt as bad if you cut yourself. You still can feel pain.
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Further information
- Tramadol uses and safety info
- Tramadol prescribing info & package insert (for Health Professionals)
- Side effects of Tramadol (detailed)
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