- HubPages»
- Health»
- Mental Health»
- Addiction»
- Drug Addiction
Quitting Ultram Tramadol. Ultram withdrawal symptoms.
Ultram is very addictive
Although a narcotic (synthetic codeine) Ultram is widely touted as a far less addictive alternative to prescription medications such as vicodin, oxycontin or methadone. Yet a browsing of internet forums devoted to overcoming an addiction to Ultram makes you question just how non-addictive it is.
I was addicted to Ultram, and also to vicodin, and in my opinion the withdrawal and addiction to Ultram was worse, and the withdrawal pains lasted longer.
Some common withdrawal symptoms with Ultram detox are:
Anxiety
Depression
Sweating
Nausea
Diarrhea
Vomiting
Insomnia
Leg restlessness (hard to describe, but very uncomfortable!)
Tremors
Chills
Hallucination
Breathing problems
Additionally, for people dependant on Ultram, a sudden cessation of use carries with it a significant possibility of seizures, and you should never try to quit "cold turkey" without first consulting with your doctor.
The withdrawal symptoms will peak after a day or so, and last for 3-4 days before gradually subsiding over the course of a month or so.
Most doctor's will advise you to gradually reduce your dosage over a period of weeks or months; and unfortunately, it gets harder to reduce the dosage as you get closer to your ultimate goal of abstinence.
Psychological addiction
If you have been using ultram to experience the pleasurable narcotic effects, you likely have a psychological addiction to compliment the physical addiction, and you may require additional drug treatment or counseling to better this desire for intoxication through drugs.
Many people find the 12 steps of NA a good place to start, and other options include finding a good psychologist familiar with addiction, a local prescription drug addiction support group, or in extreme cases, even a period of residential rehab.
Be careful with Ultram
If you are not yet using Ultram (or not yet abusing Ultram) you should consider your use very carefully before possibly passing into dependence and with it the need for very uncomfortable and anxiety filled withdrawal. The detox off of Ultram is severe and long lasting, and if you are using Ultram recreationally, the ultimate price to pay for this intoxication is high indeed.
Don’t use Ultram if you have a history of addiction
If you have any history of addiction to drugs or alcohol, you should inform your doctor before accepting a prescription for this oft prescribed medication, and be very wary of this seductive drug.
If you have any history of seizures or alcohol addiction, you are also at a much greater risk for seizures while using this medication.
Whatever your doctor says, know that this drug has a very strong abuse potential, and should be used with caution, for a short time only, and then only as directed.
Think about whether a couple of ibuprofens might be a safer way to manage pain.