Tramadol is a prescription medication used to treat moderate to moderately severe pain. It belongs to a class of drugs known as opioid analgesics, which work by binding to opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord, altering the perception of pain and response to pain signals.
In addition to its opioid properties, tramadol also has effects on the neurotransmitters serotonin and norepinephrine, similar to some antidepressant medications. This dual mechanism of action contributes to its pain-relieving effects and may also influence mood and emotional well-being.
Tramadol is available in immediate-release and extended-release formulations. The immediate-release tablets are typically taken every 4 to 6 hours as needed for pain relief, while the extended-release formulations are taken once or twice daily for around-the-clock pain management.