Formal studies on Ultram and Addiction

[Lynn B]

I'm a recovering addict (garbage can type) who has been clean and sober in 12-step programs for 5 years now.  I had a very ugly relapse 5 years ago over chronic pain -- had been clean and sober for 7 years before that.  Due to my realpse I participate in a professional diversion program.

I've been taking Ultram for chronic pain (along with Neurontin and wellbutrin) for about 3 years now.  I've done well.  Have never had "that" feeling with any of my meds, and have not had a desire to take them other than as prescribed.

Unfortunately, my diversion program is now insisting I stop Ultram because it is addicting.  Have any formal studies been done?  I honestly don't believe I can stop taking it without relapse -- pain's too bad.  Pain management doc states the only other way to go is to take other "true" opioids -- I KNOW I won't be able to do that for very long without relapse...

Got any ideas?  I'm really stuck here.

[stacymnb]

I'm currently detoxing from Ultrams and let me tell you this is harder than regular pain meds. Can't stop shaking... Hot flashes and can't sleep! This is day 2 and this *****!

[avisg]

This is a ten year old post I would start a new thread ....
avis

[BlueHawkEyes]

Has anyone heard of the "Opiate imunization shots" that they are starting to produce?  It is supposed to make it so that you can't get high from opiates however they still produce reliefe from pain, also they have a alcohol one comeing out for alcoholics.   saw this on a news channel.. reliable source

[DesiAnne]

I'm on ultram and it doesn't make me high or feel anything; nor does it do much for pain.  Is it supposed to be a good painkiller? Thanks.

[SillyPearl]

I agree with the "changed life" brought on by taking Tramadol.  I've never used drugs, not even tried pot.  I don't drink either.  I'm not a religious freak (I don't go to church) it's just that I like my mind to be clear to enjoy life.  Two years ago I developed interstitial cystitis. It got to the point that I could eat only about five foods that wouldn't make my bladder feel like someone scrubbed it with steel wool and then poured rubbing alcohol over it.  I'd stop 2-3 times on the way to work to pee.  I was up 5-6 times a night peeing boiling water.   I was finally prescribed 50 mg. tramadol three times a day.  I too have my life back.  I'm to the point now that I only take tramadol when I eat spicy or acidic foods.  It's a godsend to me.  It doesn't seem  to affect me in anyway except take away my bladder pain.  

I feel sympathy for all of you struggling out there with addictions.  I wish there was a magic pill you could all take that would take the cravings away.  After reading several topics about tramadol on this site, I was  afraid, but Skeebo, I was glad to read your post because it sounds just like me.  

Peace and happiness be on all of you.

[mtgoat911]

WOW, THIS IS MEDHELP HISTORY, A STUDY 9 YRS AGO, NOW THINK ABOUT WHAT WE KNOW ABOUT ULTRAM
I REMEMBER WHEN I WAS A TEEN I WAS GIVEN SAMPLES OF ULTRAM FOR CRAMPS
NO ONE KNEW IT WAS A BEAST
I WONDER WHAT DRUG WE WILL BE TALKING ABOUT BEING A BEAST IN 9 YRS
I JUST LOVED THIS THREAD!!