Tramadol uk is a powerful painkiller that has been around for over two decades but it is only now that we are seeing problems with its use. Like other prescription drugs it can be misused, abused and addictive. It is a very dangerous drug and we need to be aware of the dangers.

It does not occur in nature but was first synthesised in 1962 by chemists at the pharmaceutical company Grunenthal. The firm became notorious 50 years ago for its thalidomide scandal, when the drug was taken by pregnant women and led to thousands of children being born with malformed or missing limbs. The firm was fined a huge sum of money and had its products banned from the market.

The drug is not considered to be addictive if it is used correctly but it is very potent and is very easy to take too much, which can lead to serious side effects. The most common are diarrhoea, tiredness and confusion but more serious symptoms can include breathing difficulties, seizures, tremors, hallucinations and a loss of muscle coordination. In extreme cases, it can cause death.

What’s wrong with prescribing hypnotics

You should keep your medicine out of the sight and reach of children and pets. If you have any unused tramadol, ask your pharmacist how to dispose of it safely. Do not put it into the rubbish or flush it down a toilet – this can harm the environment. If you think you have taken too much, seek medical advice straight away and do not drive.