FACTS OF TRAMADOL

1. Tramadol is in a group of drugs called opiate agonists. It is used to treat moderate to severe pain by changing the way the body senses pain.
2. Tramadol can either be taken as a normal tablet or an extended-release (long-acting) tablet to be taken through the mouth. The regular tablet can be taken with or without food every four to six hours or as needed. 
3. The extended-release tablet should only be taken once a day around the same time every day.
4. When using extended-release the patient either needs to always take it with food or always take it without food. 
5. The extended-release tablets should only be taken whole. It is dangerous to split, chew, crush, snort or inject the dissolved form of the tablet.
6. It is important to only take the medication as the doctor prescribes because it is a highly dependent drug.

SIGNS OF TRAMADOL DEPENDENCY

1. Experts claim that there is a major difference in the definition of dependency and addiction. Patients who are dependent on the drug only use it because of a condition that is still being treated.
2. Patients who are self-medicating run a higher risk of dependency.
3. In some states, this drug can be purchased over the counter and is another reason for the abuse of tramadol.
4. There is also an increased chance of dependency if the patient is using tramadol for an extended amount of time. 
5. Many doctors report that the dependency for this drug is purely psychological and increased dosage may cause the user to become accustomed to the lessened pain.
6. Anything above the recommended dosage will cause side effects that can harm you. This drug is used to control pain and is not intended for other health conditions