Tramadol

What is tramadol?

(TRA-muh-dohl)

Tramadol is a synthetic atypical opioid with weak agonist activity at the mu-opioid receptor. It is used to treat moderate to severe pain and has a lower risk of dependence compared to other opioids.

Historical context

Tramadol was first synthesized in the 1960s by German pharmaceutical company Grünenthal GmbH and was introduced to the market in the 1970s. It gained popularity as an alternative to traditional opioids due to its lower abuse potential.

Medical formulations

Tramadol is available in various forms, including immediate-release and extended-release oral tablets (e.g., Ultram®️, ConZip®️) and oral solutions.

How long does tramadol stay in your system?

Tramadol has a half-life of about 6 to 8 hours. It takes approximately 30 to 40 hours for the drug to be completely eliminated from the body.

Street names

Trammies, Ultras

Appearance

Tramadol pills are typically round or oblong and come in various colors, such as white, green, or orange, depending on the formulation and dosage. They may be imprinted with the dosage and the manufacturer's logo.

Common pills

  • White, round pill with "AN 627" imprinted on one side (50 mg tablet)
  • White, oblong pill with "377" imprinted on one side (50 mg tablet)
  • Orange, round pill with "T 100" imprinted on one side (100 mg extended-release tablet)

Warning: Consuming illicit drugs, including pressed pills, may result in unintended fentanyl exposure, leading to potentially fatal consequences. Exercise caution and consider using fentanyl testing strips to identify the presence of this dangerous substance in street drugs.

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