When tramadol is taken other than how it’s directed or in larger doses than prescribed, this drug can cause an overdose. Often considered less habit-forming than other opioids, tramadol is still addictive and can lead to physical dependence.
If you or a loved one is struggling with tramadol use, Vertava Health has a tramadol rehab center that can help. We offer treatment programs designed to wean you off tramadol safely and other opioids while giving you the tools you need to live without opioid addiction. Our doctors and staff are dedicated to offering the best solutions for your unique tramadol use disorder, so call us today at 844.470.0410 to learn more.
Can You Overdose on Tramadol?
Tramadol is an opioid analgesic, often sold under the brand name Ultram. Tramadol is a narcotic that impacts the central nervous system and binds to opioid receptors in the brain. These effects cause the body’s functions to slow down, especially breathing patterns. If someone takes too much Ultram, they can suffer a potentially lethal overdose. The leading cause of overdose is slowed or stopped breathing.
Like other opioids, tramadol can result in a feeling of relaxation and well-being. This may lead some people to take too much of the drug. It is not common to overdose on tramadol when the drug is taken as prescribed. People who overdose on tramadol are often abusing the drug or taking it more frequently than directed.
Tramadol comes in an extended-release tablet, which means the medication has a potent amount in each dose. If a person uses tramadol by crushing and snorting the pill, they are at an increased chance of overdose.
Symptoms of a tramadol overdose include:
- Extreme fatigue
- Falling in and out of consciousness
- Slowed heartbeat
- Weak muscles
- decreased pupil size (“pinpoint” or “pinned out” pupils)
- cold, clammy skin
- gray or bluish tint to the skin
- coma
Large amounts of opioids like tramadol can decrease the amount of oxygen available to the brain. This can result in coma, permanent brain damage, or death. A tramadol overdose is a medical emergency. If you suspect a person is suffering an overdose, call 911 immediately and try to keep the person awake until help arrives.
Tramadol Overdose Amount
People who take tramadol may wonder how much tramadol can lead to an overdose. The answer depends on a number of personal and behavioral factors, including how a person ingests the drug.
The typical therapeutic dose for extended-release is 100 milligrams once a day. Oral tablets are usually 25 milligrams per day, taken in the morning. People with higher or lower body mass indexes may be prescribed a different dose. The prescribed dosage may increase over time as a person’s body gets used to the medication.
While tramadol can lead to feelings of euphoria, these are not typically as strong as the “high” from other opioids. People who use tramadol recreationally may chew, crush, snort, or inject the pill for a stronger effect. Others may mix tramadol with another drug, such as alcohol or benzodiazepines. These dangerous behaviors considerably raise a person’s risk of overdose.
Some people who take opioids keep naloxone (name-brand Narcan) on hand. Naloxone is a drug that reverses the effects of opioids on the central nervous system. In the event of a tramadol overdose, the person suffering will not likely be able to give themselves naloxone. It is often up to another person present to administer the medication.
Risk Factors for Tramadol Overdose
Every day in the U.S., more than 100 people die from overdosing on opioids. If you or someone you love is suffering from pain that requires the use of opioid medications, it’s vital to know the risk factors for opioid overdose—and how best to prevent it.
Anyone who takes tramadol is at risk for potential dependence, addiction, and overdose. However, those who use this narcotic medication will be at an increased risk.
Additional factors can increase a person’s chance of overdose, including:
Large or Frequent Doses
Tramadol is often prescribed due to its dual benefits of being able to treat pain while being less addictive. However, tramadol can still be habit-forming. People who take this drug over long periods can become physically dependent on the drug, which could cause a person to handle large or frequent doses. Over time, the body becomes accustomed to having high amounts of the drug in order to function normally.
If a person suddenly stops or decreases their use, the body may display symptoms of opioid withdrawal. These symptoms can be highly uncomfortable, including nausea, sweating, and muscle cramps. Some people may take higher doses of tramadol than prescribed to avoid withdrawal symptoms.
History of Other Mental Health Conditions or Substance Use
People who suffer from mental health conditions are at an increased risk for opioid use and overdose. When a person has symptoms of depression, bipolar disorder, or another mental health condition, they may take large amounts of tramadol to relieve the symptoms.
Additionally, people who struggle with polysubstance use may mix tramadol with other drugs. This raises the risk of overdose. Those who suffer from these conditions can benefit from learning safer coping mechanisms, such as mindfulness. Patients receive mental health and addiction treatment at Vertava Health’s rehab centers across the U.S.
Finding Treatment for Tramadol Use and Addiction at Vertava Health
Although opioid overdose rates are climbing, tramadol overdose is a preventable and treatable condition. When people have access to effective addiction treatment, it reduces the chance of experiencing a tramadol overdose.
At Vertava Health, we provide inpatient treatment programs with services like on-site medical detox and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT). People who suffer from substance use and mental health conditions can benefit from medication-assisted treatment and creative arts therapy.
To learn more about preventing tramadol use and overdose or to find a Tramadol rehab program near you, reach out to one of our treatment specialists today at 844.470.0410.
