Tramadol Found Less Effective Than Thought for Managing Chronic Pain

Recent research has found that Tramadol, one of the most widely prescribed opioid painkillers, is not as effective in managing chronic pain as previously believed. The findings suggest that its benefits may be limited, especially for long-term use, raising concerns among healthcare professionals about overprescription and dependency risks. Experts are now urging patients and doctors to consider alternative pain management therapies that are safer and more effective for chronic conditions.

Tramadol May Be Overhyped: Limited Pain Relief, High Risks

New research published in BMJ Evidence-Based Medicine reveals that Tramadol, a widely prescribed strong opioid, is not very effective at relieving chronic pain, the very reason it’s commonly prescribed. The study also flags serious health risks, including heart problems and other adverse effects, suggesting that its harms likely outweigh the benefits. Experts now recommend minimizing its use whenever possible.

Why Tramadol Became Popular

Tramadol works as a dual-action opioid and is recommended for moderate to severe pain, including long-term chronic pain. Its surging popularity especially in the U.S. stems from the belief that it’s safer and less addictive than other opioids. However, recent evidence challenges this assumption.

The Research Findings

‍Researchers analyzed 19 clinical trials with 6,500+ participants, studying neuropathic pain, osteoarthritis, chronic low back pain, and fibromyalgia. Most participants were around 58 years old, taking Tramadol orally, with treatment durations of 2–16 weeks.

The results were eye-opening: while Tramadol eased pain slightly, the effect was too small to be clinically meaningful. The drug doubled the risk of serious side effects, especially cardiac events like chest pain, coronary artery disease, and heart failure. Users also faced common mild side effects, including nausea, dizziness, constipation, and drowsiness.

Global Context: Opioid Risks

‍With 60 million people worldwide affected by opioid addiction, the dangers of widespread opioid use are clear. Opioid-related deaths in the U.S. rose from 49,860 in 2019 to over 81,000 in 2022, highlighting the urgent need to reassess prescriptions.

Conclusion

‍While Tramadol may provide slight relief, it likely increases both serious and minor risks. Its limited effectiveness combined with potential harms means that doctors and patients should seek safer, more effective alternatives for chronic pain management.

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Source: WPN‍