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Author: Admin | 2025-04-28
What is tramadol?Tramadol (brand names: Ultram®, ConZip®, Durela®, Ralivia®, Rybix®, Ryzolt®, Tridural®, Zytram®) is a synthetic opioid used to treat pain in dogs, cats, and other small mammals. Its use in small animals to treat pain is “off label” or “extra label”. Many drugs are commonly prescribed for off-label use in veterinary medicine. In these instances, follow your veterinarian’s directions and cautions very carefully, as their direction may be significantly different from those on the label. How is tramadol given? Give tramadol by mouth, in the form of a tablet, capsule, or a compounded liquid. Give with or without food, but due to its bitter taste, giving it with food may be required. If your pet vomits after receiving the medication on an empty stomach, give future doses with food or a treat. Liquid forms of this medication should be measured carefully. Never give tramadol with acetaminophen (Ultracet®) to cats, as acetaminophen is extremely toxic to cats. This medication will usually take effect quickly, in about 1 to 2 hours, and improvement in clinical signs should follow. However, in pets with chronic pain, this medication can take up to a few weeks before full effects are noted. What if I miss giving my pet the medication?If you miss a dose, give it when you remember. However, if it is close to the time for the next dose, skip the dose you missed, give it at the next scheduled time, and return to the regular dosing schedule. Never give your pet two doses at once or give extra doses. Are there any potential side effects?Side effects in dogs could include: sedation tremors dizziness anxiety decreased appetite vomiting diarrhea constipation Side effects in cats could include: vomiting constipation sedation dilated pupils feeling uneasy Adverse effects may occur and may be signs of overdose. Contact your veterinarian if you note these signs: seizures incoordination extreme sleepiness agitation or fast heartbeat This short-acting medication should stop working within 24 hours, although effects can be longer in pets with liver or kidney disease. Are there any risk factors for this medication?Tramadol SHOULD NOT be used: in pets that are hypersensitive to opioids in conjunction with medications that decrease brain or lung function Tramadol should be used with caution in patients: with seizure disorders with liver or kidney disease that are geriatric or debilitated that are pregnant or lactating Are there any drug interactions I should
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