Tramadol
- Effective for moderate to moderately severe pain.
- Dual mechanism of action: opioid receptor agonist and reuptake inhibitor of serotonin and norepinephrine.
- Lower risk of respiratory depression compared to stronger opioids.
Risks:
- Potential for dependence and abuse.
- Side effects include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, constipation, and headache.
- Risk of serotonin syndrome, especially when combined with other serotonergic drugs
- Seizure risk, particularly at higher doses or in patients with a seizure disorder.
- Similarly to Panadeine Forte (see above) genetic variability in tramadol metabolism can mean some patients can experience inadequate pain relief.