Is tramadol withdrawl similar to discontinuing a anti-depressant?

[Dukie31]

I have been taking tramadol and its been amazing.  I didnt think it helped at first, but now that i've been on it for 3-4 weeks its really really helping manage my pain.  plus, i'm not tired on it and i feel great.
i am taking 400mg a day which i realize is probably at the higher end, and I would like to be able to discontinue these meds in the future (hopefully I will be feeling better soon)
my question is whether tramadol withdrawal is similar to an anti-depressant in nature?  I dont get "high" or euphoric on tramadol, so I wont have that craving to deal with like i did with hydro but I've heard such horror stories about getting off them...

BTW, I have absolutely no desire for hydro AT ALL anymore, In fact, I took few after a recent surgery and it made me tired and miserable which is great!

[EvolverU]

Hi Duke,
              In a word, yes. Tramadol is sometimes associated with something called Selective Serotonin Re-uptake Inhibitor Discontinuation Syndrome (SSIDS). The same thing that can happen when SSRI's or benzos are stopped. However, there's also the opiate withdrawal part of it, too. With the exception of general anxiety and sleeplessness, the symptoms are different. We have a today. He had some rough symptoms at first but he's been doing great since the 14 day mark or so. it really varies. Don't let the horror stories shake your resolve. You can do this if you really want it. We're here,

[FourJays]

Hello - I took tramadol for a very long time.  At first it worked well for me too, but my tolerance grew very quickly and I did become dependent on it, and ultimately ended up heavily addicted.  It is my understanding that 8 - 50mg pills per day is the maximum considered "safe" dose.  If you are able to stay at this dose and it helps with your pain that is great.  Please make sure that you don't start exceeding this amount because that is where you can really get in trouble with this medication.  If you can keep up the open communication and honesty with your doctor about it (in other words if you start needing more to make it work please let him know so he/she can advise you from there).  Tramadol does have anti-depressant properties so it is very possible that discontinuance is similar to that of an AD.  In any case you will probably need to taper down once you are ready to come off of it.  I have never been on an anti-depressant (other than the Tramadol, which was prescribed to me as a pain reliever), so I cant really be sure, as far as comparing it to just an anti-depressant alone.  To ensure the best and safest result I would just suggest that you take it only as long as you need it and when you are ready to stop talk to your doctor about a taper plan.  Good luck . . .hope you are feeling better soon!

[TruckersWife18]

Hello
I don't have much experience with Tramadol.
I have taken and still could but it didn't seem to help me except maybe headach or tooth ache.

Hang in there and keep checking your post.
They roll in and out.

But I'm always here for support

Peace
Lesa