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Tramadol 50 mg/ml solution for injection/infusion

⚠ This medicine appears to have been discontinued

The electronic medicines compendium (emc) no longer publishes a Summary of Product Characteristics for this product, which usually means it is no longer marketed in the UK. The patient leaflet below is kept for reference, but the product may not be available.

If you were prescribed this medicine, other products containing Tramadol hydrochloride may still be available. Do not stop your treatment — ask your pharmacist or GP what to use instead.

Active substance: Tramadol hydrochloride

Equivalent medicines (same active substance, strength and form)

Source: electronic medicines compendium (emc)
Official leaflet: Read the PIL on emc

What it is and what it is used for

for 1 year of age. The active substance of Tramadol – tramadol hydrochloride (further in the text tramadol) – is opioid analgetic (painkiller) that acts on the central nervous system. It relieves pain due to its effect on specific nerve cells in the spinal cord and brain. Tramadol is used to relieve moderate to severe pain.

What you need to know before you take it

e Tramadol Do not use Tramadol in the following cases:

  • if you are allergic to tramadol or any of the ingredients of this medicine (listed in section 6);
  • in acute intoxication with alcohol, sleeping pills, painkillers, opioids or other psychotropic medicines (medicines that affect mood and emotions);
  • if you are taking or have taken in the last 14 days monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) (medicines to treat depression) (see Other medicines and Tramadol);
  • if you suffer from epilepsy and the treatment of seizures is not adequately controlled;
  • as a drug substitute in the case of drug discontinuation.

Use in children with breathing problems Tramadol is not recommended in children with breathing problems, since the symptoms of tramadol toxicity may be worse in these children. Other medicines and Tramadol Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are using, have recently used or might use any other medicines. Tramadol should not be used concomitantly with MAO inhibitors or within 14 days after their discontinuation (see Do not use Tramadol in the following cases). The pain relief effect of Tramadol may be weakened and the duration of exposure shortened if you also take medicines containing:

  • carbamazepine (used to treat epilepsy);
  • ondansetron (prevents nausea). Your doctor will tell you whether to use Tramadol and how large dose should be taken.

The risk of side effects increases:

  • if you are taking tranquillizers, sleeping pills, other painkillers such as morphine or codeine (in cough medicines) and alcohol simultaneously with Tramadol. You may be feeling drowsy or Warnings and precautions feeling faint. If this happens, tell your nurse or Talk to your doctor before you use Tramadol: doctor;
  • if you think you are dependent on other
  • if you are taking gabapentin or pregabalin to treat painkillers (opioids); epilepsy or pain due to nerve problems
  • if you are hypersensitive to opiates; (neuropathic pain);
  • if you tend to be loss of consciousness (if you feel – if you are taking medicines that can cause fits, fainting); such as certain antidepressants. The risk of
  • if you are in a state of shock (cold sweat may be having a fit may increase if you take Tramadol at a sign of this); the same time. Your doctor will tell you whether
  • if you suffer from elevated intracranial pressure Tramadol is suitable for you; (possible in the case of head injury or brain
  • if you are taking certain antidepressants, disease); Tramadol may interact with these medicines and
  • if you have difficulty breathing; you may experience serotonin syndrome
  • if you have a tendency towards epilepsy or fits (see section 4 'Possible side effects'); because the risk of a fit may increase;
  • if you are taking coumarin anticoagulants
  • if you suffer from depression and you are taking (medicines to thin the blood), such as warfarin, antidepressants as some of them may interact during the treatment with Tramadol. The effect of with tramadol (see Other medicines and these medicines on blood clotting may be Tramadol). affected and bleeding may occur. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you experience any of the following symptoms while using Tramadol: Extreme fatigue, lack of appetite, severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting or low blood pressure. This may indicate that you have adrenal insufficiency (low cortisol levels). If you have these symptoms, contact your doctor, who will decide if you need to take hormone supplement. Tramadol is transformed in the liver by an enzyme. Some people have a variation of this enzyme and this can affect people in different ways. In some people, they may not get enough pain relief but other people are more likely to get serious side effects. If you notice any of the following side effects, you must stop taking this medicine and seek immediate medical advice: slow or shallow breathing, confusion, sleepiness, small pupils, feeling or being sick, constipation, lack of appetite. Epileptic seizures are observed in patients taking tramadol at the recommended doses. The risk increases in excess of the maximum recommended daily dose of tramadol (400 mg). Tolerance, dependence, and addiction This medicine contains tramadol which is an opioid medicine. Repeated use of opioids can result in the drug being less effective (you become accustomed to it, known as tolerance). Repeated use of Tramadol can also lead to dependence, abuse and addiction, which may result in life-threatening overdose. The risk of these side effects can increase with a higher dose and longer duration of use. Dependence or addiction can make you feel that you are no longer in control of how much medicine you need to take or how often you need to take it. The risk of becoming dependent or addicted varies from person to person. You may have a greater risk of becoming dependent on or addicted to Tramadol if:
  • you or anyone in your family have ever abused or been dependent on alcohol, prescription medicines or illegal drugs ("addiction");
  • you are a smoker;
  • you have ever had problems with your mood (depression, anxiety, or a personality disorder) or have been treated by a psychiatrist for other mental illnesses. If you notice any of the following signs whilst taking Tramadol, it could be a sign that you have become dependent or addicted:
  • you need to take the medicine for longer than advised by your doctor;
  • you need to take more than the recommended dose;
  • you are using the medicine for reasons other than prescribed, for instance, 'to stay calm' or 'help you sleep';
  • you have made repeated, unsuccessful attempts to quit or control the use of the medicine;
  • when you stop taking the medicine you feel unwell, and you feel better once taking the medicine again ('withdrawal effects'). If you notice any of these signs, speak to your doctor to discuss the best treatment pathway for you, including when it is appropriate to stop and how to stop safely (see section 3, 'If you stop using Tramadol'). There is a small risk that you may experience a so-called serotonin syndrome that can occur after having taken tramadol in combination with certain antidepressants or tramadol alone. Seek medical The following information is intended for healthcare professionals only. Tramadol 50 mg/ml solution for injection/infusion Please read this information carefully before using Tramadol 50 mg/ml Solution for Injection or Infusion. Further information is contained in the Summary of Product Characteristics. Presentation Tramadol 50 mg/ml solution for injection/infusion is presented as a clear colourless solution free from visible particles in a colourless borosilicate glass ampoule. Each ampoule contains 2 ml of solution (100 mg of tramadol hydrochloride). Instructions for Tramadol ampoule handling Tramadol is filled in break-seal ampoules. There is a break line or open point cut on the ampoule, and it is easy to open: 1) turn the ampoule with the breaking site up; 2) break the ampoule downward. Posology The dose should be adjusted to the intensity of the pain and the sensitivity of the individual patient. The lowest effective dose for analgesia should generally be selected. The total daily dose of 400 mg tramadol should not be exceeded, except in special clinical circumstances (for example, in case of cancer pain or postoperative severe pain). Unless otherwise prescribed, Tramadol should be administered as follows: Adults and adolescents above the age of 12 years Depending on the intensity of pain, 50-100 mg of tramadol (corresponds to 1-2 ml of Tramadol) is administered every 4-6 hours. The total daily dose of 400 mg should not be exceeded. Elderly patients A dose adjustment is not usually necessary in patients up to 75 years without clinically manifest hepatic or renal insufficiency. In patients over 75 years elimination may be prolonged. Therefore, if necessary the dosage interval is to be extended according to individual requirements. Renal insufficiency/dialysis and hepatic insufficiency In patients with renal and/or hepatic insufficiency the elimination of tramadol is delayed. In these patients prolongation of the dosage intervals should be carefully considered according to the patient's requirements.

Tramadol with food and alcohol Do not use alcohol during treatment with Tramadol because the activity of this medicine may be increased. Food doesn't affect the effectiveness of tramadol. Pregnancy, breast-feeding and fertility If you are pregnant or breast-feeding, think you may be pregnant or are planning to have a baby, ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice before taking this medicine. Information on the safety of tramadol in pregnancy is very limited. Therefore, pregnant women should not take Tramadol. Long-term treatment during pregnancy with Tramadol may result in withdrawal symptoms in new-borns. Tramadol is excreted into breast milk. For this reason, you should not take Tramadol more than once during breast-feeding, or alternatively, if you take Tramadol more than once, you should stop breast-feeding. Post marketing observations revealed no effects of tramadol on fertility. Animal studies have not detected tramadol effects on fertility. Driving and using machines Tramadol may cause drowsiness, dizziness and therefore affect your ability to react. If you feel that your reaction is impaired, do not drive or operate machinery.

  • Do not drive while taking this medicine until you know how it affects you.
  • It is an offence to drive if this medicine affects your ability to drive.
  • However, you would not be committing an offence if:
  • The medicine has been prescribed to treat a medical or dental problem and
  • You have taken it according to the instructions given by the prescriber or in the information provided with the medicine and
  • It was not affecting your ability to drive safely. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you are not sure whether it is safe for you to drive while taking this medicine. Tramadol contains sodium acetate trihydrate This medicine contains less than 1 mmol sodium (23 mg) per ml of solution, that is to say essentially "sodium-free".

How to take it

Tramadol Always use Tramadol exactly as your doctor has told you. You should check with your doctor or pharmacist if you are not sure. Before starting treatment and regularly during treatment, your doctor will discuss with you what you may expect from using Tramadol, when and how long you need to take it, when to contact your doctor, and when you need to stop it (see also section 2). The dosage should be adjusted to the intensity of pain and individual pain sensitivity. In general the lowest pain-relieving dose should be taken. The total daily dose should not exceed 400 mg of tramadol (equivalent to 8 ml of Tramadol). In exceptional cases, if clinically necessary, your doctor may prescribe a higher daily dose. Unless your doctor has prescribed otherwise, the usual dose is as follows. Paediatric population Tramadol should not be used in children under 1 year of age. For children up to the age of 12, the single dose of tramadol is 1-2 mg per kg body weight. The lowest effective dose for analgesia should generally be selected. The total daily dose must not exceed the lowest of these doses – 8 mg/kg body weight or 400 mg of the active substance. Method of administration Intravenous (solution should be administered slowly (1 ml (50 mg of tramadol hydrochloride) per minute), intramuscular or subcutaneous injection. Tramadol may be diluted with an appropriate solution for infusion (e.g. 0.9% sodium chloride or 5% glucose solution) to be administered by intravenous infusion. For instructions on dilution of the medicinal product before administration, see 'Special precautions for disposal and other handling.' Treatment goals and discontinuation Before initiating treatment with Tramadol, a treatment strategy including treatment duration and treatment goals, and a plan for end of the treatment, should be agreed together with the patient, in accordance with pain management guidelines. During treatment, there should be frequent contact between the physician and the patient to evaluate the need for continued treatment, consider discontinuation and to adjust dosages if needed. When a patient no longer requires therapy with tramadol, it may be advisable to taper the dose gradually to prevent symptoms of withdrawal. In absence of adequate pain control, the possibility of hyperalgesia, tolerance and progression of underlying disease should be considered (see section 4.4). Duration of administration Tramadol should under no circumstances be administered for longer than absolutely necessary. If long-term pain treatment with tramadol is necessary in view of the nature and severity of the illness, then careful and regular monitoring should be carried out (if necessary with breaks in treatment) to establish whether and to what extent further treatment is necessary. Special precautions for disposal and other handling For single use only. Tramadol is compatible with 0.9% sodium chloride or 5% glucose solution for infusion.

Adults and adolescents aged over 12 years Depending on the pain intensity 50-100 mg of tramadol is used every 4-6 hours. The maximum daily dose – 400 mg must not be exceeded. Further information for healthcare professionals on the use of this medicine is stated at the end of this leaflet. Elderly patients In elderly patients (up to 75 years of age) without clinically detected liver or kidney insufficiency, dosage adjustment is not usually necessary. In elderly patients (over 75 years of age) the excretion of tramadol may be delayed. If this applies to you, your doctor may recommend prolonging the dosage interval. Severe liver or kidney disease (insufficiency)/dialysis patients Patients with severe liver and/or kidney insufficiency should not take Tramadol. If in your case the insufficiency is mild or moderate, your doctor may recommend prolonging the dosage interval. Use in children and adolescents Children aged 1 to 12 years Usually the single dose of tramadol is 1-2 mg/kg of body weight. The lowest effective analgesic dose usually should be chosen. The daily dose should not exceed the lowest of the following doses – 8 mg/kg of body weight or 400 mg of active substance. Further information for healthcare professionals on the use of this medicine in children is stated at the end of this leaflet. Method and duration of administration Tramadol is slowly injected (1 ml per minute), typically into a blood vessel inside the arm, into the muscle (usually the buttocks) or under the skin. Tramadol can also be diluted and administered by intravenous infusion. Further information for healthcare professionals on the use of this medicine is stated at the end of this leaflet. You should not take Tramadol longer than necessary. If long-term treatment is necessary for you, your doctor will carry out regular monitoring (if necessary with breaks in treatment) to establish whether and to what extent further treatment is necessary. If you think that the effect of Tramadol is too strong or too weak, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. If you use more Tramadol than you should If you receive additional dose by mistake, this normally will not have a negative impact. You should take your next dose as prescribed. After a very large dose, narrowed pupils, vomiting, drop in blood pressure, increased heart rate, acute circulatory weakness or collapse, consciousness disorders up to coma, fits and breathing depression or breathing arrest may occur. In such cases, you should contact your doctor immediately! If you forget to use Tramadol If you have not received intended Tramadol injection or infusion, it is expected that the pain will return. Do not take a double dose to make up for a forgotten dose, just continue to take Tramadol as before. If you stop using Tramadol You should not suddenly stop taking this medicine unless your doctor tells you to. If you want to stop taking your medicine, discuss this with your doctor first, particularly if you have been taking it for a long time. Your doctor will advise you when and how to stop, which may be by lowering the dose gradually to reduce the chance of developing unnecessary side effects (withdrawal symptoms). If the treatment with Tramadol is interrupted or completed too quickly, it is expected that the pain will return. If you wish to stop treatment because of adverse effects, please tell your doctor or nurse. Usually after Tramadol discontinuation no drug withdrawal reactions occur. However in rare cases, patients treated with Tramadol some time may feel unwell if the treatment is stopped abruptly. In these patients agitation, anxiety, nervousness and tremor may occur. Confusion, hyperactivity, sleep disorders, stomach or intestinal problems are possible. Some patients may experience panic attacks, strongly expressed anxiety, hallucinations, abnormal sensations: itching, tingling, numbness and tinnitus. Other unusual CNS symptoms such as confusion, delusion, personality disorders (depersonalization) and changes in a sense of reality (derealization) and the feeling that haunts you (paranoia) very rarely observed. If after completion of treatment you experience any of these symptoms, please tell your doctor or nurse. If you have any questions about this medicine, ask your doctor or pharmacist. 4. Possible side effects

  • hallucinations, confusion, sleep disorders, delirium, anxiety and nightmares;
  • after the treatment with Tramadol psychic complaints may occur. Their intensity and nature may vary (depending on the patient's personality and duration of treatment). They may include mood changes (mainly, elated mood, sometimes irritability), changes in activity (usually suppression, occasionally increased activity), and decreased cognitive and sensory perception (sensory recognition and the changes that can lead to erroneous judgments). Dependence may occur. If the treatment is stopped suddenly, possible drug withdrawal symptoms may occur (see If you stop using Tramadol);
  • narrowing of the pupils (miosis), excessive enlargement of the pupils (mydriasis), blurred vision;
  • slowed breathing, shortness of breath (dyspnoea);
  • asthma exacerbations are reported, although it is unknown whether it is caused by tramadol. The recommended dose exceeding or co-administered medicines that suppress brain activity may slow down breathing;
  • muscle weakness;
  • micturition disorders (urinary retention and less urine excretion than it would normally be (dysuria). Very rare (may affect less than 1 in 10,000 patients):
  • increase in liver enzymes. Not known (cannot be estimated from the available data):
  • low blood sugar;
  • hiccups;
  • serotonin syndrome, that can manifest as mental status changes (e.g. agitation, hallucinations, coma), and other effects, such as fever, increase in heart rate, unstable blood pressure, involuntary twitching, muscular rigidity, lack of coordination and/or gastrointestinal symptoms (e.g. nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea) (see section 2 'What you need to know before you use Tramadol'). Reporting of side effects If you get any side effects, talk to your doctor, pharmacist or nurse. This includes any possible side effects not listed in this leaflet. You can also report

Possible side effects

directly via the national reporting system: Yellow Card Scheme Website: www.mhra.gov.uk/yellowcard or search for MHRA Yellow Card in the Google Play or Apple App Store. By reporting side effects you can help provide more information on the safety of this medicine.

How to store it

Tramadol Do not refrigerate or freeze. Keep out of the sight and reach of children. Store this medicine in a safe and secure storage space, where other people cannot access it. It can cause serious harm and be fatal to people when it has not been prescribed for them. Do not use this medicine after the expiry date which is stated on the outer carton and ampoule labelling after EXP. The expiry date refers to the last day of that month. Once ampoule has been opened, the product should be used immediately. Chemical and physical in-use stability has been demonstrated for 48 hours at 25 °C with 0.9% sodium chloride and 5% glucose solution. From a microbiological point of view, unless the method of opening/dilution precludes the risk of microbial contamination, the product should be used immediately. If not used immediately, in-use storage times and conditions are the responsibility of the user. Do not throw away any medicines via wastewater or household waste. Ask your pharmacist how to throw away medicines you no longer use. These measures will help protect the environment.

Contents of the pack and other information

What Tramadol contains

  • The active substance is tramadol hydrochloride. 1 ml of solution contains 50 mg of tramadol hydrochloride. One ampoule (1 ml) contains 50 mg of tramadol hydrochloride. One ampoule (2 ml) contains 100 mg of tramadol hydrochloride.
  • The other ingredients are sodium acetate trihydrate, water for injections.

Like all medicines, this medicine can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them.

What Tramadol looks like and contents of the pack Clear, colourless solution, free from visible particles.

Usually the frequency of side effects is classified as follows: Very common (may affect more than 1 in 10 patients):

  • dizziness;
  • nausea.

1 ml or 2 ml of solution in type I hydrolytic class colourless borosilicate glass ampoule with break line or open point cut. 5 ampoules in a PVC liner. 1 liner (5 ampoules) or 2 liners (10 ampoules) in outer carton. 20 liners (100 ampoules) in outer carton (for hospital use).

Common (may affect less than 1 in 10 patients):

  • headache, somnolence;
  • constipation, dry mouth, vomiting;
  • sweating (hyperhidrosis);
  • exhaustion.

Not all pack sizes may be marketed.

Uncommon (may affect less than 1 in 100 patients):

  • the effect on heart rate and blood flow (palpitations, increased heart rate, weakness, faint or acute circulatory weakness or collapse). These adverse effects mainly occur during intravenous administration and in patients who are physically stressed;
  • retching, upset stomach (e.g. feeling of pressure in the stomach, bloating), diarrhoea;
  • skin reactions (e.g. itching, rash, hives). Rare (may affect less than 1 in 1,000 patients):
  • allergic reactions (e.g. difficulty breathing, bronchospasm, wheezing, skin oedema) and shock (sudden circulatory failure);
  • low heart rate;
  • high blood pressure;
  • abnormal sensations (e.g. itching, tingling, numbness), trembling, epileptic fits, muscle twitches, uncoordinated movements, transient loss of consciousness (syncope), speech disorders; Epileptic fits have occurred mainly after treatment with high doses of tramadol or when tramadol was used concurrently with other medicines that can cause seizures;
  • changes in appetite; Calculation of injection volume 1) Calculate the total required dose of tramadol hydrochloride (mg): body weight (kg) x dose (mg/kg). 2) Calculate the injected volume of diluted solution (ml): divide the total dose (mg) by the desired reconstituted concentration (mg/ml; see table below). Table. Dilution of the Tramadol solution for injection/infusion

Marketing Authorisation Holder and Manufacturer AS KALCEKS Krustpils iela 71E, Rīga, LV-1057, Latvia Tel.: + 371 67083320 e-mail: [email protected] This medicine is authorised in the Member States of the European Economic Area and in the United Kingdom (Northern Ireland) under the following names: Latvia: Tramadol Kalceks 50 mg/ml šķīdums injekcijām/infūzijām Lithuania: Tramadol Kalceks 50 mg/ml injekcinis ar infuzinis tirpalas Austria: Tramadol Kalceks 50 mg/ml Injektions-/Infusionslӧsung Hungary: Tramadol Kalceks 50 mg/ml oldatos injekció/infúzió Czech Republic: Tramadol Kalceks Poland: Tramadol Kalceks United Kingdom (Northern Ireland): Tramadol 50 mg/ml solution for injection/infusion Romania: Tramadol Kalceks 50 mg/ml soluție injectabilă/perfuzabilă This leaflet was last revised in 06/2024 27.05.2024. HUK/I/50/9

From a microbiological point of view, unless the method of opening/dilution precludes the risk of microbial contamination, the product should be used immediately. If not used immediately, in-use storage times and conditions are the responsibility of the user. Special precautions for storage Do not refrigerate or freeze. For storage conditions after dilution or first opening of the medicinal product, see the 'Shelf-life' section. Nature and contents of container 1 ml or 2 ml of solution in type I hydrolytic class colourless borosilicate glass ampoule with break line or open point cut. 5 ampoules in a PVC liner. 1 liner (5 ampoules) or 2 liners (10 ampoules) in outer carton. 20 liners (100 ampoules) in outer carton (for hospital use).

According to your calculations dilute the content of Tramadol ampoule by adding an appropriate solvent, mix and use the calculated volume of diluted solution. Any unused medicinal product or waste material should be disposed of in accordance with local requirements. Excipients Sodium acetate trihydrate and water for injections. Tramadol incompatibilities Tramadol 50 mg/ml solution for injection/infusion should not be mixed with solution for injection or infusion containing diclofenac, indomethacin, phenylbutazone, diazepam, midazolam, flunitrazepam and glyceryl trinitrate. This medicinal product must not be mixed with other medicinal products except those mentioned under 'Special precautions for disposal and other handling.' Shelf-life 4 years. Once ampoule has been opened, the product should be used immediately. Chemical and physical in-use stability has been demonstrated for 48 hours at 25 °C with 0.9% sodium chloride and 5% glucose solution.

Frequently asked questions about Tramadol 50 mg/ml solution for injection/infusion

How do I take Tramadol 50 mg/ml solution for injection/infusion?

Tramadol 50 mg/ml solution for injection/infusion comes as injection containing 50mg/ml. Always follow the dose your doctor or pharmacist has given you, and read the leaflet that comes with the medicine.

What is the active substance in Tramadol 50 mg/ml solution for injection/infusion?

The active substance in Tramadol 50 mg/ml solution for injection/infusion is tramadol hydrochloride.

Are there equivalent medicines to Tramadol 50 mg/ml solution for injection/infusion?

Medicines with the same active substance, strength and form include: Zydol 50 mg/ml Solution for Injection, Tramadol hydrochloride 50 mg/ml solution for injection or infusion. They are interchangeable only if your prescriber or pharmacist says so.

Where does this information come from?

This leaflet reproduces the patient information leaflet approved for Tramadol 50 mg/ml solution for injection/infusion, as published on the electronic medicines compendium (emc). The version printed inside your medicine’s packaging is the one that applies to you.

Can I get Tramadol 50 mg/ml solution for injection/infusion without a prescription?

Whether a medicine is available over the counter or on prescription only depends on its licence. Check the leaflet, or ask your pharmacist — they can tell you straight away.

About this leaflet

The text above reproduces the patient information leaflet approved for this medicine, restructured for easier reading.

Medical disclaimer: This page is for information only and does not replace advice from your doctor or pharmacist. Always read the leaflet supplied with your medicine. If you are unwell, call NHS 111; in an emergency, call 999.

Medicines with the same active substance: Tramadol hydrochloride (43 medicines)
See every medicine containing this substance, or browse the full A–Z of active substances.
⚕For healthcare professionals — Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC)Full SmPC: dosage, interactions, contraindications, warnings+
Technical information intended for healthcare professionals (doctors and pharmacists). The Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC) is the official document approved by the MHRA/EMA. It does not replace the patient leaflet or a doctor’s advice.

4.1. Therapeutic indications

Treatment of moderate to severe pain.

4.2. Posology and method of administration

Posology

The dose should be adjusted to the intensity of the pain and the sensitivity of the individual patient. The lowest effective dose for analgesia should generally be selected. The total daily dose of 400 mg tramadol should not be exceeded, except in special clinical circumstances (for example, in case of cancer pain or postoperative severe pain).

Unless otherwise prescribed, Tramadol should be administered as follows:

Adults and adolescents above the age of 12 years

Depending on the intensity of pain, 50–100 mg of tramadol (corresponds to 1-2 ml of Tramadol) is administered every 4–6 hours. The total daily dose of 400 mg should not be exceeded.

Elderly patients

A dose adjustment is not usually necessary in patients up to 75 years without clinically manifest hepatic or renal insufficiency. In patients over 75 years elimination may be prolonged. Therefore, if necessary the dosage interval is to be extended according to individual requirements.

Renal insufficiency/dialysis and hepatic insufficiency

In patients with renal and/or hepatic insufficiency the elimination of tramadol is delayed. In these patients prolongation of the dosage intervals should be carefully considered according to the patient's requirements.

Paediatric population

Tramadol should not be used in children under 1 year of age.

For children up to the age of 12, the single dose of tramadol is 1-2 mg per kg body weight. The lowest effective dose for analgesia should generally be selected. The total daily dose must not exceed the lowest of these doses – 8 mg/kg body weight or 400 mg of the active substance.

Method of administration

Intravenous (solution is to be injected slowly (1 ml (50 mg of tramadol hydrochloride) per minute)), intramuscular or subcutaneous injection. Tramadol may also be diluted in solution for infusion (for example, 0.9% sodium chloride or 5% glucose solution) and infused.

For instructions on dilution of the medicinal product before administration, see section 6.6.

Treatment goals and discontinuation

Before initiating treatment with Tramadol, a treatment strategy including treatment duration and treatment goals, and a plan for end of the treatment, should be agreed together with the patient, in accordance with pain management guidelines. During treatment, there should be frequent contact between the physician and the patient to evaluate the need for continued treatment, consider discontinuation and to adjust dosages if needed. When a patient no longer requires therapy with tramadol, it may be advisable to taper the dose gradually to prevent symptoms of withdrawal. In absence of adequate pain control, the possibility of hyperalgesia, tolerance and progression of underlying disease should be considered (see section 4.4).

Duration of administration

Tramadol should under no circumstances be administered for longer than absolutely necessary. If long-term pain treatment with tramadol is necessary in view of the nature and severity of the illness, then careful and regular monitoring should be carried out (if necessary with breaks in treatment) to establish whether and to what extent further treatment is necessary.

4.3. Contraindications

- Hypersensitivity to the active substance and/or to any of the excipients listed in section 6.1

- Acute intoxication with alcohol, hypnotics, analgesics, opioids, or other psychotropic medicinal products

- Patients who are receiving MAO inhibitors or who have taken them within the last 14 days (see section 4.5)

- Patients with epilepsy not adequately controlled by treatment

- For use in narcotic withdrawal treatment.

4.4. Special warnings and precautions for use

CYP2D6 metabolism

Tramadol is metabolised by the liver enzyme CYP2D6. If a patient has a deficiency or is completely lacking this enzyme an adequate analgesic effect may not be obtained. Estimates indicate that up to 7% of the Caucasian population may have this deficiency. However, if the patient is an ultra-rapid metaboliser there is a risk of developing side effects of opioid toxicity even at commonly prescribed doses. General symptoms of opioid toxicity include confusion, somnolence, shallow breathing, small pupils, nausea, vomiting, constipation and lack of appetite. In severe cases this may include symptoms of circulatory and respiratory depression, which may be life threatening and very rarely fatal. Estimates of prevalence of ultra-rapid metabolisers in different populations are summarised below:

Population

African/Ethiopian

African American

Asian

Caucasian

Greek

Hungarian

Northern European

Prevalence %

29%

3.4% to 6.5%

1.2% to 2%

3.6% to 6.5%

6.0%

1.9%

1% to 2%

Post-operative use in children

There have been reports in the published literature that tramadol given post-operatively in children after tonsillectomy and/or adenoidectomy for obstructive sleep apnoea, led to rare, but life threatening adverse events. Extreme caution should be exercised when tramadol is administered to children for post-operative pain relief and should be accompanied by close monitoring for symptoms of opioid toxicity including respiratory depression.

Children with compromised respiratory function

Tramadol is not recommended for use in children in whom respiratory function might be compromised including neuromuscular disorders, severe cardiac or respiratory conditions, upper respiratory or lung infections, multiple trauma or extensive surgical procedures. These factors may worsen symptoms of opioid toxicity.

Serotonin syndrome

Serotonin syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition, has been reported in patients receiving tramadol in combination with other serotonergic agents or tramadol alone (see sections 4.5, 4.8 and 4.9).

If concomitant treatment with other serotonergic agents is clinically warranted, careful observation of the patient is advised, particularly during treatment initiation and dose escalations.

Symptoms of serotonin syndrome may include mental status changes, autonomic instability, neuromuscular abnormalities and/or gastrointestinal symptoms.

If serotonin syndrome is suspected, a dose reduction or discontinuation of therapy should be considered depending on the severity of the symptoms. Withdrawal of the serotonergic drugs usually brings about a rapid improvement.

Sleep-related breathing disorders

Opioids can cause sleep-related breathing disorders including central sleep apnoea (CSA) and sleep-related hypoxemia. Opioid use increases the risk of CSA in a dose-dependent fashion. In patients who present with CSA, consider decreasing the total opioid dosage.

Tolerance and opioid use disorder (abuse and dependence)

Tolerance, physical and psychological dependence, and opioid use disorder (OUD) may develop upon repeated administration of opioids such as Tramadol. Repeated use of Tramadol can lead to opioid use disorder (OUD). A higher dose and longer duration of opioid treatment can increase the risk of developing OUD. Abuse or intentional misuse of Tramadol may result in overdose and/or death. The risk of developing OUD is increased in patients with a personal or a family history (parents or siblings) of substance use disorders (including alcohol use disorder), in current tobacco users or in patients with a personal history of other mental health disorders (e.g. major depression, anxiety and personality disorders).

Before initiating treatment with Tramadol and during the treatment, treatment goals and a discontinuation plan should be agreed with the patient (see section 4.2). Before and during treatment the patient should also be informed about the risks and signs of OUD. If these signs occur, patients should be advised to contact their physician.

Patients will require monitoring for signs of drug-seeking behaviour (e.g. too early requests for refills). This includes the review of concomitant opioids and psycho-active drugs (like benzodiazepines). For patients with signs and symptoms of OUD, consultation with an addiction specialist should be considered.

Adrenal insufficiency

Opioid analgesics may occasionally cause reversible adrenal insufficiency requiring monitoring and glucocorticoid replacement therapy. Symptoms of acute or chronic adrenal insufficiency may include e.g. severe abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, low blood pressure, extreme fatigue, decreased appetite, and weight loss.

Tramadol may only be used with particular caution in opioid-dependent patients, patients with head injury, shock, a reduced level of consciousness of uncertain origin, disorders of the respiratory centre or function, increased intracranial pressure.

In patients sensitive to opiates the product should only be used with caution.

Care should be taken when treating patients with respiratory depression, or if concomitant CNS depressant drugs are being administered (see section 4.5), or if the recommended dosage is significantly exceeded (see section 4.9) as the possibility of respiratory depression cannot be excluded in these situations.

Convulsions have been reported in patients receiving tramadol at the recommended dose levels. The risk may be increased when a dose of tramadol exceeds the recommended daily dose (400 mg). Tramadol may increase the seizure risk in patients taking other medicinal products that lowers the seizure threshold (see section 4.5). In patients with epilepsy or those susceptible to seizures, tramadol may only be used when absolutely necessary.

When a patient no longer requires therapy with tramadol, it may be advisable to taper the dose gradually to prevent symptoms of withdrawal.

This medicinal product is not suitable as a substitute in opioid-dependent patients. Although tramadol is an opioid agonist, it cannot suppress morphine withdrawal symptoms.

This medicinal product contains less than 1 mmol sodium (23 mg) per ml of solution, that is to say essentially 'sodium-free'.

4.5. Interaction with other medicinal products and other forms of interaction

MAO inhibitors

Tramadol should not be used in combination with MAO inhibitors (see section 4.3).

In patients treated with MAO inhibitors in the 14 days prior to the use of the opioid pethidine, life-threatening interactions affecting the central nervous system, respiratory and cardiovascular function have been observed. The same interactions with MAO inhibitors cannot be ruled out during treatment with tramadol.

Cimetidine

The results of pharmacokinetic studies have so far shown that on the concomitant or previous administration of cimetidine (enzyme inhibitor) clinically relevant interactions are unlikely to occur.

Carbamazepine

Simultaneous or previous administration of carbamazepine (enzyme inducer) may reduce the analgesic effect and shorten the duration of action.

CNS-active agents

Concomitant administration of Tramadol with other centrally depressant medicinal products including alcohol may potentiate the CNS effects (see section 4.8).

The concomitant use of Tramadol with gabapentinoids (gabapentin and pregabalin) may result in respiratory depression, hypotension, profound sedation, coma or death.

Tramadol can induce convulsions and increase the potential for selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), tricyclic antidepressants, antipsychotics and other seizure threshold-lowering medicinal products (such as bupropion, mirtazapine, tehrahydrocannabinol) to cause convulsions.

Concomitant therapeutic use of tramadol and serotonergic drugs, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), MAO inhibitors (see section 4.3), tricyclic antidepressants and mirtazapine may cause serotonin syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition (see sections 4.4 and 4.8).

Coumarin derivatives

Caution should be exercised during concomitant treatment with tramadol and coumarin derivatives (e.g. warfarin) due to reports of increased INR with major bleeding and ecchymoses in some patients.

CYP3A4 inhibitors

Other active substances known to inhibit CYP3A4, such as ketoconazole and erythromycin, might inhibit the metabolism of tramadol (N-demethylation) and probably also the metabolism of the active O-demethylated metabolite. The clinical importance of such an interaction has not been studied (see section 4.8).

Ondansetron

In a limited number of studies the pre- or postoperative application of the antiemetic 5-HT3 antagonist ondansetron increased the requirement of tramadol in patients with postoperative pain.

4.6. Fertility, pregnancy and lactation

Pregnancy

Animal studies with tramadol at very high doses have revealed effects on organ development, ossification and neonatal mortality. Tramadol crosses the placenta. There is inadequate evidence available on the safety of tramadol in human pregnancy. Therefore, tramadol should not be used in pregnant women.

Tramadol – administered before or during birth – does not affect uterine contractility. In neonates it may induce changes in the respiratory rate which are usually not clinically relevant. Prolonged use during pregnancy may lead to neonatal withdrawal symptoms.

Breastfeeding

Approximately 0.1% of the maternal dose of tramadol is excreted in breast milk. In the immediate post-partum period, for maternal oral daily dosage up to 400 mg, this corresponds to a mean amount of tramadol ingested by breast-fed infants of 3% of the maternal weight-adjusted dosage. For this reason tramadol should not be used during lactation or alternatively, breast-feeding should be discontinued during treatment with tramadol. Discontinuation of breast-feeding is generally not necessary following a single dose of tramadol.

Fertility

Post marketing surveillance does not suggest an effect of tramadol on fertility. Animal studies did not show an effect of tramadol on fertility.

4.7. Effects on ability to drive and use machines

Even when taken according to instructions, tramadol may cause effects such as somnolence and dizziness and therefore may impair the reactions of drivers and machine operators. This applies particularly in conjunction with alcohol and other psychotropic substances.

This class of medicine is in the list of drugs included in regulations under 5a of the Road Traffic Act 1988. When prescribing this medicine, patients should be told:

• The medicine is likely to affect your ability to drive

• Do not drive until you know how the medicine affects you

• It is an offence to drive while under the influence of this medicine

• However, you would not be committing an offence (called 'statutory defence') if:

- The medicine has been prescribed to treat a medical or dental problem and

- You have taken it according to the instructions given by the prescriber and in the information provided with the medicine and

- It was not affecting your ability to drive safely.

4.8. Undesirable effects

The side effects mentioned below are listed according to MedDRA system organ classification. The frequencies are ranked according to the following convention: very common (≥1/10), common (≥1/100 to <1/10), uncommon (≥1/1,000 to <1/100), rare (≥1/10,000 to <1/1,000), very rare (<1/10,000), not known (cannot be estimated from the available data).

The most commonly reported adverse reactions are nausea and dizziness. These occur in more than 10% of patients.

Immune system disorders

Rare: allergic reactions (e.g. dyspnoea, bronchospasm, wheezing, angioneurotic oedema) and anaphylaxis.

Cardiac disorders

Uncommon: effect on cardiovascular regulation (palpitations, tachycardia). These adverse reactions may occur especially on intravenous administration and in patients who are physically stressed.

Rare: bradycardia.

Investigations

Rare: increase in blood pressure.

Vascular disorders

Uncommon: effect on cardiovascular regulation (postural hypotension or cardiovascular collapse). These adverse reactions may occur especially on intravenous administration and in patients who are physically stressed.

Nervous system disorders

Very common: dizziness.

Common: headache, somnolence.

Rare: paraesthesia, tremor, epileptiform convulsions, involuntary muscle contractions, abnormal coordination, syncope, speech disorders.

Convulsions occurred mainly after administration of high doses of tramadol or after concomitant treatment with medicinal products lowering the seizure threshold (see sections 4.4 and 4.5).

Not known: serotonin syndrome.

Metabolism and nutrition disorders

Rare: changes in appetite.

Not known: hypoglycaemia.

Psychiatric disorders

Rare: hallucinations, confusion, sleep disturbance, delirium, anxiety and nightmares.

Psychic adverse reactions may occur following administration of tramadol which vary individually in intensity and nature (depending on personality and duration of treatment). These include changes in mood (usually elation, occasionally dysphoria), changes in activity (usually suppression, occasionally increase) and changes in cognitive and sensorial capacity (e.g. decision behaviour, perception disorders).

Drug dependence may occur. Symptoms of drug withdrawal syndrome, similar to those occurring during opiate withdrawal, may occur. These include: agitation, anxiety, nervousness, insomnia, hyperkinesia, tremor and gastrointestinal symptoms. Other symptoms that have very rarely been seen with tramadol discontinuation include: panic attacks, severe anxiety, hallucinations, paraesthesias, tinnitus and unusual CNS symptoms (i.e. confusion, delusions, depersonalisation, derealisation, paranoia).

Eye disorders

Rare: miosis, mydriasis, blurred vision.

Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders

Rare: respiratory depression, dyspnoea.

If the recommended doses are considerably exceeded and other centrally depressant substances are administered concomitantly (see section 4.5), respiratory depression may occur.

Worsening of asthma has been reported, though a causal relationship has not been established.

Not known: hiccups.

Gastrointestinal disorders

Very common: nausea.

Common: constipation, dry mouth, vomiting.

Uncommon: retching, gastrointestinal discomfort (a feeling of pressure in the stomach, bloating), diarrhoea.

Hepatobiliary disorders

Very rare: in a few isolated cases an increase in liver enzyme values has been reported in a temporal connection with the therapeutic use of tramadol.

Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders

Common: hyperhidrosis.

Uncommon: dermal reactions (e.g. pruritus, rash, urticaria).

Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders

Rare: muscular weakness.

Renal and urinary disorders

Rare: micturition disorders (dysuria and urinary retention).

General disorders and administration site conditions

Common: fatigue.

Drug dependence

Repeated use of Tramadol can lead to drug dependence, even at therapeutic doses. The risk of drug dependence may vary depending on a patient's individual risk factors, dosage, and duration of opioid treatment (see section 4.4).

Reporting of suspected adverse reactions

Reporting suspected adverse reactions after authorisation of the medicinal product is important. It allows continued monitoring of the benefit/risk balance of the medicinal product. Healthcare professionals are asked to report any suspected adverse reactions via the national reporting system:

Yellow Card Scheme

Website: www.mhra.gov.uk/yellowcard or search for MHRA Yellow Card in the Google Play or Apple App Store.

4.9. Overdose

Symptoms

In principle, on intoxication with tramadol symptoms similar to those of other centrally acting analgesics (opioids) are to be expected. These include in particular miosis, vomiting, cardiovascular collapse, consciousness disorders up to coma, convulsions and respiratory depression up to respiratory arrest. Serotonin syndrome has also been reported.

Treatment

The general emergency measures should be taken. Keep open the respiratory tract (aspiration), maintain respiration and circulation depending on the symptoms. The antidote for respiratory depression is naloxone. In animal experiments naloxone had no effect on convulsions. In such cases diazepam should be given intravenously.

In case of intoxication orally, gastrointestinal decontamination with activated charcoal or by gastric lavage is only recommended within 2 hours after tramadol intake. Gastrointestinal decontamination at a later time point may be useful in case of intoxication with exceptionally large quantities or prolonged-release formulations.

Tramadol is minimally eliminated from the serum by haemodialysis or haemofiltration. Therefore treatment of acute intoxication with Tramadol with haemodialysis or haemofiltration alone is not suitable for detoxification.

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