Effexor and Ultram

[HelloKelle]

Hello,

I have been prescribed Ultram for pain and I currently take Effexor XR 225mg. per day. Is anyone else taking this combo of meds and how is it working for you? Walgreens wouldn't fill my script b/c they said the combo causes seizures. However, my psych said that it wouldn't. I'M CONFUSED!!

[FloridaMouse]

My GI told me that mixing Tramadol/Ultram  with anti-D's is a "no no".  Both mess with the seratonins in the brain.  I had thought about going on Lexapro early on in treatment but turned out my "rage" issues were very short lived and I didn't need it.

By the way, I'm with Meki ... Tramadol is the best thing that I have ever taken for pain.  It was prescribed for me a year ago when I was diagnosed with RA.  It works really good for me and I'll never go back to the "hard" stuff (Vicodin) again.

Mouse

[NashPred]

Looks like you Pharmacist may be right. I typed these 2 drugs into a web site that checks interactions between drugs  and this is what it came back with:

TRAMADOL (in Ultram) may interact with VENLAFAXINE HYDROCHLORIDE (in Effexor)
Both venlafaxine and tramadol have an effect on serotonin, a chemical that is found in the brain. Excess levels of serotonin in the brain may cause serious or potentially life-threatening side effects. Early signs of this problem include increased confusion and restlessness. Other possible symptoms may include weakness, fever, nausea, and anxiety. In rare cases, high levels of serotonin in the brain may cause severe complications like seizures, stroke, and even death. If venlafaxine and tramadol are used together, your doctor may want to closely monitor you for side effects. Ask your healthcare provider about these drugs and this potential interaction as soon as possible.
This interaction is poorly documented and is considered major in severity.

Here is a link to the web site:

http://www.drugdigest.org/DD/Interaction/ChooseDrugs/1,4109,,00.html

Hope this helps.
Be careful.  

[meki]

I have NEVER taken Effexor.

But I will say Tramadol and Ultram (Tramadol extended release) have been the greatest things since sliced bread... I just started taking them about 2 weeks ago - and they totally work on me... To the point I'm working without any problems --- I'm out playing badminton... I'm fishing for trout --- and doing things I haven't been able to do for the past 2 years.

I've even lost weight in 2 weeks!!! Woohooo --- couch potato reform school!

I dunno about the combo part tho... If your pharmacist won't fill it - you've got a darn good pharmacist that watches out over you.

Ask the pharmacist to show you the literature so you can show the doctor.

But --- if you had to choose one or the other --- I'd go with the Ultram... The Effexor - I've heard some nasty stuff about.

Much luck sweetie...

Meki