Other Ways to Take Ultram ER
Ultram ER is an extended-release formulation of tramadol, according to the U.S. National Institutes of Health's MedlinePlus Website. Ultram ER is prescribed to treat pain throughout the day without requiring multiple smaller doses.
There is only one way to take this medication: as prescribed. Examining the FDA-approved method of taking Ultram ER, and exploring the dangers associated with possible other ways, is essential for safety with this drug.
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How to Take Ultram ER
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The product website for Ultram ER indicates that the medication should be taken orally once a day. The tablet should not be crushed, broken or chewed.
As a synthetic opiate, similar to drugs like hydrocodone (Vicodin) and oxycodone (Oxycontin), Ultram ER is designed to provide steady pain management over the course of a day. Taking this medication in ways other than the prescribed method can lead to serious health problems.
Potential Problems
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Taking Ultram ER in any other way than it is prescribed is termed "abuse" by the medical community, and it can be problematic, even dangerous to the user. Since Ultram ER was engineered by medical scientists to be taken orally and only once daily, deviating from this method can cause serious side effects.
Crushing or breaking Ultram ER before swallowing, insufflating (snorting) or injecting will cause too much tramadol to be released into the body too quickly. This can lead to an overdose, according to MedlinePlus. Symptoms of an overdose of tramadol may include: decreased pupil size in the eye, difficulty breathing, extreme or marked drowsiness, unconsciousness from which the affected person cannot be roused, coma, seizure and even heart attack.
Additionally, alcohol should be avoided when taking Ultram ER. Mixing alcohol with this drug can lead to dangerous side effects.
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Expert Insight
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Ultram ER is a very effective drug for pain management if taken as prescribed--though potentially deadly if abused.
If you or someone close to you is having trouble taking Ultram ER orally as it is indicated, contact a doctor. A doctor can determine whether taking oral Ultram ER is the best option, and more than likely provide alternatives that can be taken in different ways, such as liquid formulations, injections or suppositories.
Call emergency services immediately if Ultram ER overdose signs are apparent.
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