Ultram

USES: This medicine is an analgesic used to treat or prevent pain.

ULTRAM is a prescription-only pain medicine intended for people who have moderate to moderately severe chronic pain. ULTRAM helps your body's system relieve pain in two important ways. Laboratory studies suggest that first, ULTRAM acts directly on parts of the brain and spinal cord to reduce the amount of pain. Second, it reduces the size of the pain signal passed from one nerve to another.

ULTRAM works differently from an NSAID (which stands for nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug and is pronounced "EN-sayd"), such as ibuprofen. ULTRAM is also different from other pain medications, such as codeine or morphine. While the mode of action of ULTRAM is not completely understood, laboratory studies suggest that at least two complementary mechanisms appear applicable: binding of parent and M1 metabolite to opioid receptors and weak inhibition of the re-uptake of norephinephrine and serotonin.

BEFORE USING: Some medicines or medical conditions may interact with this medicine. Inform your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and over-the-counter medicine that you are taking. Use of this medicine is not recommended if you are also taking cyclobenzaprine or medicine for depression or other emotional or mood disorders. If you are taking any of these medicines, be sure your doctor knows. additional monitoring of your dose or condition may be needed if you are taking bupropion, narcotic analgesics, or have a history of seizures. Inform your doctor of any other medical conditions, allergies, pregnancy, or breast-feeding. Contact your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns about using this medicine.

DIRECTIONS: Follow the directions for using this medicine provided by your doctor. Store this medicine at room temperature, away from heat and light. If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

CAUTIONS: Do not exceed the recommended dose or take this medicine for longer than prescribed. If you experience difficulty breathing or tightness of chest; swelling of eyelids, face, or lips; or develop a rash or hives, tell your doctor immediately. Do not take any more of this medicine unless your doctor tells you to do so. Avoid alcohol while you are using this medicine. This medicine will add to the effects of alcohol and other depressants. Do not drive, operated machinery, or do anything else that could be dangerous until you know how you react to this medicine. Using this medicine alone, with other medicines, or with alcohol may lessen your ability to drive or to perform other potentially dangerous tasks. Before you begin taking any new medicine, either prescription or over-the-counter, check with your doctor or pharmacist. For women: if you plan on becoming pregnant, discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using this medicine during pregnancy. This medicine is excreted in breast milk. Do not breast-feed while taking this medicine.

POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS: Side effects, that may go away during treatment, include dizziness, nausea, drowsiness, dry mouth, constipation, headache, or sweating. If they continue or are bothersome, check with your doctor. Check with your doctor as soon as possible if you experience skin rash, itching, seizures, or hallucinations. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.

POSSIBLE DRUG INTERACTIONS: Drug interactions can result in unwanted side effects or prevent a medicine from doing its job.

IF YOU TAKE TOO MUCH: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include cold and clammy skin, low body temperature, slowed breathing, slowed heartbeat, drowsiness, dizziness, lightheadedness, seizures, deep sleep, and loss of consciousness.