Ultram/Tramadol

Anonymous · Post by **Anonymous** » Fri Jul 07, 2006 7:59 pm

Hey everyone.

I just have some questions about this medication.

I don't understand why it is in the Opioid family but isn't really considered an Opioid? I know that doesn't make any sense, but that's because I just don't get it. How does it work? I've read that it effects serotonin and norepinephrine.

FidgetBoy · Post by **FidgetBoy** » Fri Jul 07, 2006 8:51 pm

Tramadol does cause reuptake inhibition of both norepi and serotonin BUT it also partially binds to what we call the "mu" receptor (pronounced "mew"). The mu receptor is what narcotics bind to. Put simply, tramadol is partially an antidepressant and partially a narcotic. In addition, both norepi and serotonin are neurotransmitters involved in the transmission of pain signals down the spinal cord- so it's activity as an "antidepressant" also helps with pain. The hard part about your question is whether tramadol could have the potential to worsen RLS or not work as well as a "pure" narcotic. I can't answer that question- I can tell you that tramadol's activity on neurotransmitters makes it most similar to the antidepressant "venlafaxine" otherwise known as Effexor. Because tramadol has partial narcotic activity, I don't think it's ever been tested in humans for use as an antidepressant. (it would cause more side-effects at larger doses esp. when compared to other, more established antidepressants). It should be stated that tramadol can STILL cause sedation, nausea, constipation, and even addiction but at a much smaller rate. It sounds like others on this board have had success with it- you can try it and see how it goes. ps. I just read a new study that puts chronic acetaminophen (tylenol) in a bad light- I would avoid "ultracet" which is tylenol mixed with tramadol.

Anonymous · Post by **Anonymous** » Fri Jul 07, 2006 9:26 pm

Anonymous · Post by **Anonymous** » Fri Jul 07, 2006 9:28 pm

Post by **ViewsAskew** » Fri Jul 07, 2006 9:53 pm

Em, I can't recally any posts that it worsened anyone's RLS. You might want to post on the Yahoo Cyberspace board. They are a large group and mostly different from the regular posters here. You could also seach through their archives to see what has been posted about it.

cornelia · Post by **cornelia** » Sat Jul 08, 2006 10:17 am

Em, Tramadol really helps my RLS. I don't know anything about the chemistry of meds but wouldn't it work like this: if it helps to take away your pain (as it is a painkiller) you feel better and that is why you think it works for depression too? I don't know but it certainly lifts my spirit.

Corrie

Carol Ann · Post by **Carol Ann** » Sat Jul 08, 2006 3:12 pm

Hi!

I'm taking Mirapex for my RLS. I've gained about 20+ pounds since I started taking it. I mentioned it to my doctor when I last saw him if Mirapex can cause weight gain. He said No. Well, I don't really believe him. Of course, I'm also taking Wellbrutin. Maybe that is causing the weight gain, although I've heard Wellbrutin doesn't cause weight gain.
I'm also taking a blood pressure pill - Hyzaar. That also may be responsible for my weight gain. I try to eat nutritiously. I've noticed my appetite has increased since I've been on the meds.

Please advise!

Thanks!

Carol Ann Sondergaard
E-mail: Csondergaard22@wmconnect.com

Anonymous · Post by **Anonymous** » Sat Jul 08, 2006 3:14 pm

Post by **ViewsAskew** » Sat Jul 08, 2006 5:50 pm

Carol, I gained 50 pounds taking it - a warning is now required about it possibly causing compulsive behavior. Gambling has been most associated with it, but other compulsions have been as well, with food being one of the most common after gambling. I did lost much of the weight when I stopped it, but not all.

So, it could easily be the Mirapex. Our doctors do not read the boards and it takes them a while to catch up to all of our collective wisdom.

Anonymous · Post by **Anonymous** » Sat Jul 08, 2006 11:13 pm

FidgetBoy · Post by **FidgetBoy** » Sun Jul 09, 2006 1:38 am

If you don't respond to tramadol, I wouldn't worry that you wouldn't respond to narcotics as a whole. I've had patients tell me that vicoden did nothing for their pain but percocet did and vice versa-- everyone responds differently. I can't remember, did you say what sorts of RLS symptoms you have? I ask that because my RLS has not only a creepy-crawly component but also this horrible hot throbbing pain that feels like my feet and calves are on fire. My oxycodone does NOTHING for the burning sensation I get, which is why I also take neurontin with my narcotic. You just need to find the right drug or combo of drugs for what you experience. Keep your chin up! ps- tramadol doses should not exceed 400 mg within a 24 hr period.

Anonymous · Post by **Anonymous** » Sun Jul 09, 2006 2:43 am

FidgetBoy · Post by **FidgetBoy** » Sun Jul 09, 2006 2:55 am

I've never seen Zonegran for RLS but since it is an anticonvulsant, I would imagine it has the potential to help with neuropathic pain (like my Neurontin). As with all anticonvulsants, be aware that it will make you pretty groggy until you get used to it. Take it at night and make sure you have time to sleep a good 8-10 hrs. After a week or two, the sleepiness should get better. Let me know if it works for you, I'm curious to see if it helps!

Anonymous · Post by **Anonymous** » Sun Jul 09, 2006 4:14 am

ksxroads · Post by **ksxroads** » Mon Jul 10, 2006 4:53 pm

Dear Em,

Fidget is right, some people do not find Ultram helpful, some don't. initially before my RLS was managed, Ultram was not as affective as lortab with nightly rls... I have a friend who finds no help from ultram, lortab, yet oxycodone does.

It might be helpful to go to RLShelp.org and look through the letters about opiod use.

Rowing madly for you today, Hazey

Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) Discussion Board

Ultram/Tramadol

Ultram/Tramadol

Mirapex and weight gain