Tramadol (Ultram®)

Introduction to tramadol (ultram)

Tramadol is a pain medication used either alone or in combination with other pain relief drugs. Most side effects of Tramadol are dose-dependent, becoming more prevalent at higher doses. If your pet experiences unacceptable side effects, please contact your veterinarian to discuss dosage adjustments.

Skeletal formula of Tramadol

Missed doses and Changing medications

If you miss a dose of Tramadol, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not administer double doses.

Special precautions

Keep this medication well out of reach of both children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion.

Potential side effects

While Tramadol is effective for managing pain, it can cause several side effects:

Constipation: Common in pets on this medication. To alleviate constipation, add 1-2 teaspoons of canned pumpkin per 10 pounds of body weight to your pet’s diet. Ensure it is plain canned pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling. Consult your veterinarian if your pet is on a special diet before introducing pumpkin.
Sedation and Mobility Issues: Some pets may appear sleepy or have difficulty walking.
Dysphoria: Pets may become agitated, whining frantically and panting, especially at higher doses or when combined with sedatives. This can be mistaken for pain. Adjusting doses or the timing of medication might be necessary. If you notice these symptoms, contact your veterinarian.
Behavior Changes: Rarely, Tramadol can cause behaviors like mania or aggression. If such behaviors occur, isolate your pet for safety, discontinue the medication, and contact your veterinarian.
Respiratory Depression: Though rare at normal doses, respiratory depression can occur. Monitor your pet’s breathing and seek veterinary care if there are concerns.
Seizures: While seizures have not been reported in dogs and cats due to Tramadol, it's important to monitor pets with existing seizure conditions. Discontinue use and consult your veterinarian if you notice an increase in seizure frequency.