Tramadol

[Beachgoddess]

I was taking Tramadol 50 mg. for fibromyalgia pain for approximately seven years, always prescribed by my physician.  I fluctuated between 2-4 pills per day, but usually just 2 at nighttime.  Last week my doctor put me on Cymbalta and told me that I couldn't take the Tramadol with the Cymbalta, so I discontinued the it.  Ever since, I'm barely getting any sleep and I seem to be breathing shallowly.  Even at this dose, could I be experiencing withdrawal symptoms?  If so, how long can I expect this to continue?

[Lucy671060]

A related discussion, Do you recommenda taper for Tramadol? was started.

[J T Junig, MD PhD]

Yes, you may be experiencing withdrawal symptoms.  The withdrawal is unusual with tramadol;  some people have very uncomfortable symptoms, and others have none at all. Starting the Cymbalta may reduce your withdrawal to some extent, as Cymbalta is a serotonin (and norepinephrine) reuptake blocker, and some of the withdrawal from Tramadol comes from changes in serotonin activity.  The withdrawal is not 'dangerous', so do your best to avoid concentrating on them.  Distraction is one thing that can help reduce withdrawal symptoms.  I would expect them to continue for one to two weeks at the most.

[CaLiBoY1]

Mr Junig I currently quit cold turkey on tramadol and was taking a very high dose and am having really bad withdrawal. How long do you think i will feel this way or what can i do to get the opiates out of my body faster than just sitting it out?

[Bre333]

Hi there,
Tramadol/Ultram can be very habit forming. I agree with Dr.Junig, it sounds like your experiencing withdrawal symptoms. These include insomnia, restless legs, muscle and leg cramping, difficulty breathing and swallowing, a lot of yawning, diarrhea,etc... Tramadol not marketed as an opiate but the mechanism of action is just the same.Some clinicians have assumed this popular analgesic's nonscheduled status under the Controlled Substance Act (CSA) means tramadol has no substance abuse potential. And by abuse I mean, dependence. It should subside within 1-2 weeks, and post acute withdrawal within 2-3 months.
Good Luck!