Tramadol 200mg

Tramadol 200mg ER – Extended-Release Pain Relief for Chronic Pain | Once-Daily Dose

Tramadol 200mg Extended-Release (ER) is a prescription opioid analgesic used for the management of moderate to moderately severe chronic pain. It contains Tramadol Hydrochloride, a centrally acting synthetic opioid, formulated to release the medication slowly over 24 hours to maintain consistent pain control without the need for frequent dosing.

This high-dose, extended-release formulation is ideal for individuals suffering from ongoing conditions such as arthritis, back pain, nerve pain (neuropathy), or post-surgical recovery, where around-the-clock pain management is needed.

Chemical & Pharmacological Profile:

• Generic Name: Tramadol Hydrochloride

• Formula: C16H25NO2

• Strength: 200mg (Extended Release)

• Drug Class: Opioid analgesic (Schedule IV – U.S. Controlled Substance)

• Mechanism of Action:

  • Weak mu-opioid receptor agonist

  • Inhibits serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake in the CNS

• Onset: ~1 hour (extended release)

• Duration: ~24 hours (steady release)

Common Brand Names:

• Ultram® ER (USA)

• Tramal Retard, Zydol SR (UK/Europe)

• Generic Tramadol ER 200mg – Available from Teva, Mylan, Actavis, and others

• Not to be confused with Tramadol 50mg IR or combo forms (like Ultracet®)

Medical Uses:

• Chronic pain management:

  • Osteoarthritis

  • Sciatica and back pain

  • Cancer-related pain (non-severe)

  • Neuropathic pain

• Used when continuous, long-term opioid therapy is needed and alternative options are inadequate

Dosage & Administration:

• Starting dose: 100mg ER once daily

• Maintenance dose: 200mg ER once daily

• Maximum: 300mg/day unless otherwise directed by a physician

• Swallow whole with water — do not crush, break, or chew

• Take at the same time daily, with or without food

• Not recommended for as-needed (PRN) use

⚠️ Use with caution in elderly, renal/hepatic impairment, or history of seizures.

Warnings & Side Effects:

• Common: Nausea, constipation, dry mouth, dizziness, headache

• Serious: Seizures, serotonin syndrome (especially with SSRIs), respiratory depression, addiction risk

• Do not combine with alcohol, benzodiazepines, or other CNS depressants

• Withdrawal symptoms may occur if stopped abruptly

• Pregnancy Category C – not advised unless clearly needed