Is Tramadol Addicting?
It is possible to become addicted to Tramadol because it is an narcotic. However, not all narcotics are opiates like morphine. Because it is a powerful painkiller, some people are reluctant to take Tramadol because of the possibility of becoming addicted to it. When it is used properly in the treatment of moderate to severe pain, there is little chance of addiction similar to that associated with opiates. It kills pain. It does not cure disease.
Following a research evaluation, the Journal of Family Practice considers Tramadol to be a low-risk drug for dependency. While Tramadol is very effective and not likely to become addictive, there have been a few cases in which dependency has developed.
Dependency has resulted when Tramadol was taken without medical supervision. There are states in which it is possible to obtain this drug over the counter for pain relief. Medicating yourself without the knowledge and expertise of a medical professional is a very dangerous thing to do. Treating ordinary pain with Tramadol is not a good idea.
Taking Tramadol for a prolonger period of time without medical supervision may likely result in dependence as well. Part of this dependence is psychological in nature. People come to like the feeling of well-being it produces, so they begin increasing their dosage to lessen or completely eliminate pain. However, Tramadol like many drugs has a maximum safe dosage. Anything beyond that point and adverse side effects are certain to happen.
It's important to note that addiction and dependency are very different. People who need Tramadol to control moderate to severe pain are said to be dependent on it. Doctors prescribe it as an analgesic when required. When used for a long time, patients come to depend on its effects. When it is no longer needed, the doctor will help the patient gradually wean himself from the drug. Stopping Tramadol abruptly will cause unpleasant withdrawal symptoms otherwise even if you're not dependent or addicted to it.
Addiction, on the other hand, results from a person misusing Tramadol. Not being under medical supervision, taking higher than the maximum dosage regularly, and using it more frequently are all signs of addiction to this drug.
People who have become addicted will report falsely that they have lost their medication and need a replacement when they in fact are trying to acquire more pills. Others will visit more than one doctor or pharmacy to get more Tramadol, begin stealing it, or convincing others to share their own prescription. A Tramadol user who begins think about his next dose all the time and where he's going to buy it is addicted.
The best way to deal with a Tramadol addiction is to never develop one. Follow your doctor's advice to a tee and exercise self-discipline.
If you find yourself addicted, there are ways of getting clean. One way is the Waismann Method of Accelerated Neuro-Regulation which uses other medicines to rid you of opioid receptors, your body's chemical links that allow you to feel the effects of Tramadol. Withdrawal symptoms are avoided, but you'll have to be hospitalized for a few days followed by a drug treatment program and counseling.
There are some online testimonials regarding herbal regimens for helping prevent Tramadol addiction and withdrawal symptoms. The herbs usually mentioned include multi-vitamins with an additionallll B-complex supplement, caffeine, eutherero root, fish oil, gingko biloba, green tea, and kava-kava.. Eating a healthy diet and getting regular exercise are also parts of this strategy.