Tramadol use can cause a number of different side effects, including nausea.[1]
To reduce or minimize this side effect, follow prescription instructions directly. Do not take higher doses than prescribed or take tramadol more frequently than prescribed.
If nausea persists or becomes disruptive to the ability to function, call the prescribing physician to talk about alternative solutions or a change to the dosing.
Nausea is usually an unpleasant but harmless side effect that can be associated with tramadol use. Though it is bothersome, it normally doesn’t involve major health ramifications. In fact, many individuals will experience mild nausea when starting this medication, but most will find that the issue tapers off on its own as the body adjusts.
Nausea is a common side effect with all opioids. About 40% of people taking opioids experience nausea. In addition, 15% to 25% may vomit after taking opioids.[2]
If nausea comes with other side effects, it may require medical attention. Serious reactions require medical attention, such as high blood pressure, respiratory issues, or allergic reactions that occur with or without nausea.[1]
Similarly, if nausea leads to vomiting, and vomiting continues for more than 24 hours, seek medical care.
Tramadol may induce nausea due to interactions with neurotransmitters and receptors found within the brain and gastrointestinal tract.
Although tramadol acts as an opioid analgesic by binding with mu opioid receptors in order to relieve pain, other neurotransmitter systems like serotonin and norepinephrine could potentially also be altered. This can lead to unexpected interactions that produce nausea as a side effect.[3]
In most cases, when tramadol use triggers symptoms of nausea, the issue only lasts for a few days. For most people, it won’t lead to vomiting.
However, in some cases, the problem can persist for weeks or longer, or it can cause vomiting. If the problem continues, call your doctor.
Try these steps to avoid nausea related to tramadol use:[1,4]
Again, many people experience side effects when they first start taking tramadol or their dose is increased. In most cases, side effects pass within the first week, but if they do not, contact your doctor.
Seek immediate medical attention if any of the following occur:[6]
While tramadol can effectively manage moderate to severe discomfort when taken as directed, it can lead to an opioid use disorder when it is misused or taken in combination with other substances.[1]
At Bicycle Health, we offer a comprehensive treatment program that includes access to life-saving medication designed specifically to treat dependence on opioids like tramadol. Through our Medication for Addiction Treatment (MAT) program, you’ll have access to Suboxone as well as therapy.
Suboxone is a combination drug that offers multiple benefits, including these:
With physical withdrawal symptoms and cravings controlled, people in recovery have the ability to turn their full attention to the work done in therapy. MAT has repeatedly been shown to reduce relapse rates and promote long-term recovery from OUD.[10]
We provide each patient with a unique treatment plan based on their opioid misuse history, past attempts at treatment and current goals for recovery. In most cases, this involves a number of therapy sessions each week. We offer our services via a telehealth platform, making treatment accessible to everyone, no matter where they live.
To learn more about Bicycle Health’s recovery options, contact us today.
Peter Manza, PhD received his BA in Psychology and Biology from the University of Rochester and his PhD in Integrative Neuroscience at Stony Brook University. He is currently working as a research scientist in Washington, DC. His research focuses on the role of the brain dopamine system in substance use disorders and in aging. He also studies brain function in obesity and eating disorders.
