Tramadol Addiction

Written by:

Last Updated:

May 7th, 2024

When it comes to prescription painkillers, they can often feel like a lifeline for those dealing with chronic or acute pain. However, the problem arises from the potential for addiction to many of these drugs. Tramadol, a potent synthetic opioid, is one such medication with a high risk of addiction. On this page, we delve into what Tramadol is, why it can become addictive and what steps to take if you or a loved one needs help recovering from Tramadol addiction.

What is Tramadol?

Tramadol is a synthetic opioid analgesic, which means it’s a man-made medication that works in the body to relieve pain. Its chemical structure is specifically designed to mimic the action of natural opioid peptides within the brain and nervous system but with various modifications to enhance its effectiveness or reduce side effects.

Tramadol operates by binding to the mu-opioid receptors in the brain, which are the same receptors that natural endorphins attach to. This action helps to block the transmission of pain signals in the body, thereby reducing the sensation of pain.

In addition to its opioid receptor activity, Tramadol uniquely affects the brain’s chemistry by inhibiting the reuptake of two neurotransmitters: serotonin and norepinephrine. This dual mechanism of action contributes to its pain-relieving effects and differentiates it from many other opioid medications, which typically do not have this serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibition capability.

What is Tramadol used for?

Tramadol is often prescribed for its ability to provide quick and effective relief for acute pain. For instance, after surgical procedures, pain management is a critical aspect of patient care. Tramadol’s immediate-release formulations are particularly suited for such scenarios, offering pain relief soon after ingestion. This can help patients begin their recovery process in a more comfortable state.

Tramadol is also used for patients with chronic pain. Conditions such as arthritis can significantly impair a person’s quality of life over time. In these cases, Tramadol’s extended-release formulations provide continuous pain relief throughout the day and night. For people living with chronic pain, this can mean an improvement in daily functioning and a reduction in the constant discomfort.

Does Tramadol have the potential to be addictive?

Yes, there is the potential for a Tramadol addiction risk. Its potential for addiction stems from its mechanism of action and the effects it produces in the brain. Here are just some of the reasons as to why Tramadol can be addictive:

Opioid receptors activation

Tramadol works by binding to opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord, which are part of the central nervous system. This action blocks pain signals from being sent to the brain, effectively decreasing the user’s perception of pain. However, this binding also triggers the release of significant levels of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward pathways in the brain.

Dopamine release

The increased dopamine release in response to Tramadol use creates feelings of euphoria and well-being, which can be psychologically reinforcing. People may begin to seek out these pleasurable feelings by taking the drug in a manner not prescribed (e.g., in higher doses or more frequently).

Physical dependence

Through consistent usage, individuals using Tramadol might build up a tolerance, necessitating increased doses to attain comparable pain alleviation or feelings of euphoria. This progression can pave the way to dependence, wherein the body acclimates to the drug’s presence, prompting withdrawal symptoms upon sudden cessation or dosage reduction..

Psychological dependence

Beyond physical dependence, psychological factors can contribute to addiction. People may start using Tramadol not just for pain relief but as a way to cope with stress, anxiety or depression, reinforcing the cycle of dependence and addiction.

Withdrawal symptoms

When someone who is dependent on Tramadol stops taking it, they may experience withdrawal symptoms, which can include nausea, sweating, agitation, anxiety and cravings for the drug. These withdrawal symptoms can drive the cycle of addiction, as individuals may continue using Tramadol to avoid discomfort.

Concerning UK statistics of Tramadol deaths

A new batch of statistics released in early 2024 reveals concerning numbers of Tramadol-related deaths in the UK.

Source: Statista

The trend shown in the bar chart indicates a huge increase in the number of deaths from drug poisoning by Tramadol in England and Wales from 1996 to 2022. There have been fluctuations throughout the years, but the general direction is a worrying upward trend. After a period of relatively low numbers in the initial years, there’s a noticeable rise beginning in 2006, peaking in 2014 with 240 deaths. Following that peak, there’s a slight downward trend but the numbers remain significantly higher than in the early years of the reported data.

Even though there’s been a slight decrease since the 2014 peak of Tramadol deaths in the UK, the persistently high figures signal that the Tramadol addiction risk remains a major issue. The 2022 statistics, being the second highest on record since 1996, underscore the ongoing severity of the problem.

This scenario could point to a range of underlying issues, such as more accessible Tramadol (i.e. over-prescription) or a lack of adequate support for people struggling with Tramadol addiction. Primarily, however, it highlights the addictive nature and potential hazards associated with Tramadol.

What treatment options are available for Tramadol addiction?

Overcoming Tramadol addiction is a journey that requires a comprehensive approach, addressing both the physical and psychological facets of dependency. At Sanctuary Lodge, we offer a holistic inpatient rehab programme tailored to help you through each step of this journey.

Tramadol detox

Your first step at Sanctuary Lodge involves a medically monitored detox process. This ensures your withdrawal from Tramadol is as safe and comfortable as possible, with a team of medical professionals there to minimise withdrawal symptoms.

Therapy

We embrace a wide array of therapy methods to tackle the psychological aspects of your addiction. Alongside traditional therapies like Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), we incorporate holistic methods such as art therapy and yoga. This comprehensive approach aims to heal not just your mind and body but your spirit as well, giving you the best foundation for a successful recovery.

Aftercare support system

Sanctuary Lodge provides an extensive aftercare support system as we firmly believe that treatment shouldn’t stop once you’ve finished your rehab programme. This includes ongoing therapy sessions, support groups and resources designed to assist you in maintaining your sobriety and adapting to life post-rehabilitation

What’s next?

If you or a loved one is struggling with Tramadol addiction, know that there’s hope and help waiting at Sanctuary Lodge. Our compassionate team of professionals offers a safe, supportive environment for recovery, utilising treatment plans to address both physical and emotional aspects of addiction.

Don’t let Tramadol addiction control your life any longer. Take the first step towards a healthier, happier future. Contact Sanctuary Lodge today and begin your journey to recovery.

(Click here to see works cited)

Edinoff AN, Kaplan LA, Khan S, et al. Full Opioid Agonists and Tramadol: Pharmacological and Clinical Considerations. Anesth Pain Med. 2021;11(4):e119156. Published 2021 Sep 6. doi:10.5812/aapm.119156
Almér Herrnsdorf E, Holmstedt A, Håkansson A. Tramadol misuse in treatment-seeking adolescents and young adults with problematic substance use – Prediction of treatment retention. Addict Behav Rep. 2022;16:100446. Published 2022 Jul 11. doi:10.1016/j.abrep.2022.100446
Stewart, Conor. “Tramadol Drug Poisoning Deaths 1996-2022.” Statista, 13 Feb. 2024, www.statista.com/statistics/470898/death-by-Tramadol-drug-poisoning-in-england-and-wales/.