Tramadol HCL 50mg is a generic, oral medication available only with a physician's prescription that contains 50 milligrams of the medication in one tablet. A narcotic, tramadol is effective in the relief of moderate to severe chronic pain.

Function

Tramadol HCL 50mg works by interacting with specialized locations on your brain and spinal cord, known as opioid receptors. By interfering with these receptors, tramadol HCL 50mg blocks the transmission of pain signals from your nerves from reaching your brain.

Time Frame

Doctors typically prescribe one tramadol HCL 50mg tablet for use every four to six hours as long as pain persists, reports the Mayo Clinic.

Features

When used for weeks or months, tramadol HCL 50mg may cause chemical dependence. If you develop a dependence and stop taking the drug, you may experience withdrawal symptoms like anxiety, sweating, insomnia, nausea, shaking, diarrhea and nasal congestion, according to the U.S. National Library of Medicine.

Side Effects

Common side effects of tramadol HCL 50mg include dizziness, nausea, constipation, headaches and drowsiness, according to the U.S. National Library of Medicine. The drug poses a risk for respiratory depression, a life-threatening condition where your brain is unable to regulate your breathing.

Considerations

If you have a history of substance abuse, depression, drug abuse, head injuries, hormonal imbalances, respiratory depression, seizures, epilepsy, stomach problems or liver or kidney disease, it may not be safe for you to take tramadol HCL 50mg, cautions the Mayo Clinic.

Source:

U.S. National Library of Medicine: Tramadol Hydrochloride

Mayo Clinic: Tramadol (Oral Route)