Other non-narcotic pain medications (e.g. Ultram)
There is a new type of non-narcotic oral pain
medication that can be prescribed to treat low
back pain. Tramadol (Ultram) acts centrally (in
the brain) to modulate the sensation of pain
and has no anti-inflammatory effect. It is a
stronger pain reliever than acetaminophen, but
probably not as strong as the narcotic agents.
Ultram is often a good option for treatment of
low back pain because patients do not build up
a tolerance with extended usage and there is
a very low incidence of addiction.
This new medication is still quite expensive
and is not covered by some health plans because
of the expense. The regularly prescribed dose
is one to two 50mg tablets every four to six
hours, not to exceed eight pills a day. Exceeding
the prescribed dose may lead to respiratory depression
or seizures.
Ultram has several potential side effects and
risks, such as:
-
Drug interactions. Care should be
taken with antidepressant medications, as a
combination of Ultram and antidepressant medications
can lead to seizures. Ultram should also not
be taken in conjunction with alcohol, tranquilizers,
or narcotics because the effects are additive
and it may impair mental and physical function.
-
Pregnancy risk. Ultram should not
be taken by women who may be pregnant.
-
Tolerance. Ultram is not well tolerated
by everyone, and some people report feeling "weird" or "unusual" while
on the medication.
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