tramadol
Tramadol immediate-release tablets and oral solution are used as a short-term treatment to relieve severe pain (pain that begins suddenly, has a specific cause, and is expected to go away when the cause of the pain is healed) in people who are expected to need an opioid pain medication and who cannot be controlled by the use of alternative pain medications. Tramadol extended-release tablets and capsules are used to relieve severe and persistent pain in people who are expected to need an opioid pain medication to relieve pain around-the-clock for a long time and who cannot be treated with other pain medications. Tramadol extended-release tablets and capsules should not be used to treat mild or moderate pain, short-term pain, or pain that can be controlled by medication that is taken as needed. Tramadol is in a class of medications called opiate (narcotic) analgesics. It works by changing the way the brain and nervous system respond to pain.
Full drug information on MedlinePlus →This is general information, not medical advice. Pregnancy and breastfeeding decisions should always be made with your healthcare provider.
Can taking tramadol affect fertility or make it harder to get pregnant?
According to the MotherToBaby fact sheet, no studies have been done to determine whether taking tramadol can make it harder to become pregnant. If you have questions about your fertility, it is best to discuss them with your healthcare provider.
Does taking tramadol increase the risk of miscarriage?
Miscarriage can occur in any pregnancy for many reasons, and it is not known whether tramadol increases that chance. Two studies looked at miscarriage rates in people prescribed tramadol during pregnancy: one found a higher rate and the other did not, and prescription-based studies cannot confirm whether the medication was actually taken. Any concerns should be discussed with your healthcare provider.
Does taking tramadol increase the risk of birth defects?
It is not known whether tramadol increases the chance of birth defects. At least three studies did not find an increase, while another study reported a small increase including heart defects and clubfoot, though that study did not account for the reasons tramadol was used. Studies of opioids as a group suggest that if there is any increased chance of birth defects, it is likely small; this is something to review with your healthcare provider.
Can taking tramadol during pregnancy cause other pregnancy-related complications?
One study did not find an increased chance of preterm birth with tramadol use. Studies of opioids more generally have reported a higher chance of issues such as poor fetal growth, low amniotic fluid, stillbirth, preterm delivery, and cesarean birth, especially with higher doses or longer use than prescribed. Use of an opioid close to delivery may also lead to withdrawal symptoms (NOWS) in the newborn, so it is important to talk with your healthcare provider.
Can taking tramadol during pregnancy affect the child's brain development, learning, or behavior?
It is not known whether tramadol specifically increases the chance of behavior or learning problems. Some studies of opioids as a group have found more learning and behavior concerns in children exposed for long periods during pregnancy, but it is hard to know whether this is due to the medication or other factors. Your healthcare provider can help you weigh these considerations.
Is it safe to breastfeed while taking tramadol?
Tramadol can pass into breast milk. Two studies looking at tramadol use for postpartum pain did not report side effects in the babies, though some infants may have trouble with the amounts of tramadol in breast milk. It is best to discuss your specific situation with your healthcare provider or a MotherToBaby specialist.
Source: MotherToBaby Fact Sheet
tramadol