Pharmacy Guide

Patient leaflets and SmPCs, drug interaction checker, official dosages and NHS pharmacy opening hours — all in one place.

Pharmacy Guide

Patient leaflets and SmPCs, drug interaction checker, official dosages and NHS pharmacy opening hours — all in one place.

← Back to all medicines

Tramadol hydrochloride Krka 150 mg prolonged-release tablets

⚠ 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 you need to know before you take it

e Tramadol hydrochloride Krka 3. How to take Tramadol hydrochloride Krka 4. Possible side effects 5. How to store Tramadol hydrochloride Krka 6. Contents of the pack and other information

Tramadol hydrochloride Krka

Do not take Tramadol hydrochloride Krka

  • if you are allergic to tramadol or any of the other ingredients of this medicine (listed in section 6);
  • in acute poisoning with alcohol, sleeping pills, pain relievers or other medicines that affect mood and emotions;
  • if you are also taking MAO inhibitors (certain medicines used for treatment of depression) or have taken them in the last 14 days before treatment with Tramadol hydrochloride Krka (see "Other medicines and Tramadol hydrochloride Krka");
  • if you suffer from epilepsy and your fits are not adequately controlled by treatment;
  • as a substitute in drug withdrawal. Warnings and precautions Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before taking Tramadol hydrochloride Krka:
  • if you think that you are addicted to other pain relievers (opioids);
  • if you suffer from consciousness disorders (if you feel that you are going to faint);
  • if you are in a state of shock (cold sweat may be a sign of this);
  • if you suffer from increased pressure in the brain (possibly after a head injury or brain disease);
  • if you have difficulty in breathing;
  • if you have a tendency towards epilepsy or fits because the risk of a fit may increase;
  • if you suffer from a liver or kidney disease;
  • if you suffer from depression and you are taking antidepressants as some of them may interact with tramadol (see "Other medicines and Tramadol hydrochloride Krka"). Serotonin syndrome 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 advice immediately if you have any of the symptoms related to this serious syndrome (see section 4 "Possible side effects"). Sleep-related breathing disorders Tramadol hydrochloride Krka can cause sleep-related breathing disorders such as sleep apnoea (breathing pauses during sleep) and sleep related hypoxemia (low oxygen level in the blood). The symptoms can include breathing pauses during sleep, night awakening due to shortness of breath, difficulties to maintain sleep or excessive drowsiness during the day. If you or another person observe these symptoms, contact your doctor. A dose reduction may be considered by your doctor. Opioid-induced ventilatory impairment and persistent post-operative opioid use Do not use for acute post-operative pain owing to the increased risk of persistent post-operative opioid use (PPOU) and opioid-induced ventilatory impairment (OIVI).

Epileptic fits have been reported in patients taking tramadol at the recommended dose level. The risk may be increased when doses of tramadol exceed the recommended upper daily dose limit (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 hydrochloride Krka 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 hydrochloride Krka 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 hydrochloride Krka, 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 taking Tramadol hydrochloride Krka). Please also inform your doctor if one of these problems occurs during Tramadol hydrochloride Krka treatment or if they applied to you in the past. Talk to your doctor if you experience any of the following symptoms while taking Tramadol hydrochloride Krka: 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. Children and adolescents The medicine should not be given to children under 12 years of age.

Tramadol is not recommended in children and adolescents with breathing problems, since the symptoms of tramadol toxicity may be worse in these children and adolescents. Other medicines and Tramadol hydrochloride Krka Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking, have recently taken or might take any other medicines. Tramadol hydrochloride Krka should not be taken together with MAO inhibitors (certain medicines for the treatment of depression). The pain-relieving effect of Tramadol hydrochloride Krka may be reduced and the length of time it acts may be shortened, if you take medicines which contain

  • carbamazepine (for epileptic fits);
  • ondansetron (prevents nausea). Concomitant use of Tramadol hydrochloride Krka and sedative medicines such as benzodiazepines or related drugs increases the risk of drowsiness, difficulties in breathing (respiratory depression), coma and may be life-threatening. Because of this, concomitant use should only be considered when other treatment options are not possible. However if your doctor does prescribe Tramadol hydrochloride Krka together with sedative medicines the dose and duration of concomitant treatment should be limited by your doctor. Please tell your doctor about all sedative medicines you are taking, and follow your doctor's dose recommendation closely. It could be helpful to inform friends or relatives to be aware of the signs and symptoms stated above. Contact your doctor when experiencing such symptoms. Your doctor will tell you whether you should take Tramadol hydrochloride Krka, and which dose. The risk of side effects increases,
  • if you are taking tranquillizers, sleeping pills, other pain relievers such as morphine and codeine (also as cough

medicine), and alcohol while you are taking Tramadol hydrochloride Krka. You may feel drowsier or feel that you might faint. If this happens tell your doctor.

  • if you are taking medicines which may cause convulsions (fits), such as certain antidepressants or antipsychotics. The risk having a fit may increase if you take Tramadol hydrochloride Krka at the same time. Your doctor will tell you whether Tramadol hydrochloride Krka is suitable for you.
  • if you are taking certain antidepressants Tramadol hydrochloride Krka may interact with these medicines and you may experience serotonin syndrome (see section 4 "Possible side effects").
  • if you are taking coumarin anticoagulants (medicines for blood thinning), e.g. warfarin, together with Tramadol hydrochloride Krka. The effect of these medicines on blood clotting may be affected and bleeding may occur.
  • if you are taking gabapentin or pregabalin to treat epilepsy or pain due to nerve problems (neuropathic pain). Tramadol hydrochloride Krka with food and alcohol Do not drink alcohol during treatment with Tramadol hydrochloride Krka as its effect may be intensified. Food does not influence the effect of Tramadol hydrochloride Krka. Pregnancy, breast-feeding and fertility Pregnancy 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. There is very little information regarding the safety of tramadol in human pregnancy. Therefore you should not use Tramadol hydrochloride Krka if you are pregnant. Chronic use during pregnancy may lead to withdrawal symptoms in newborns.

Breast-feeding Tramadol is excreted into breast milk. For this reason, you should not take Tramadol hydrochloride Krka more than once during breast-feeding, or alternatively, if you take Tramadol hydrochloride Krka more than once, you should stop breast-feeding. Fertility Based on human experience tramadol is suggested not to influence female or male fertility. Driving and using machines Tramadol hydrochloride Krka may cause drowsiness, dizziness and blurred vision and therefore may impair your reactions. If you feel that your reactions are affected, do not drive a car or other vehicle, do not use electric tools or operate machinery. The medicine can affect your ability to drive as it may make you sleepy or dizzy.

  • 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 hydrochloride Krka contains lactose If you have been told by your doctor that you have an intolerance to some sugars, contact your doctor before taking this medicinal product.
  • Black U Article name.: PL.Tramadol hydrochloride Krka prt GB Prepared by: D. Primc Date: 06.01.2025

PL.TRAMADOL HYDROCHLORIDE KRKA PRT GB second page

Always take this medicine 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 hydrochloride Krka, 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). Your doctor will adjust the dosage according to the intensity of your pain and your individual pain sensitivity. In general the lowest pain-relieving dose should be taken. Do not take more than 400 mg tramadol hydrochloride daily, except if your doctor has instructed you to do so. The recommended dose is: Adults and adolescents from the age of 12 years

  • One Tramadol hydrochloride Krka 100 mg tablet twice daily (equivalent to 200 mg tramadol hydrochloride per day) preferably in the morning and evening If necessary, the dose may be increased up to 150 mg or 200 mg twice daily (equivalent to 300 mg – 400 mg tramadol hydrochloride per day). Children Tramadol hydrochloride Krka is not suitable for children below the age of 12 years. Elderly patients In elderly patients (above 75 years) 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 hydrochloride Krka. If in your case the insufficiency is mild or moderate, your doctor may recommend prolonging the dosage interval. Method of administration Tramadol hydrochloride Krka prolonged-release tablets are for oral use. Always swallow Tramadol hydrochloride Krka prolongedrelease tablets whole, not divided or chewed, with sufficient liquid, preferably in the morning and evening. You may take the tablets on an empty stomach or with meals. How long should you take Tramadol hydrochloride Krka? You should not take Tramadol hydrochloride Krka for longer than necessary. If you need to be treated for a longer period, your doctor will check at regular short intervals (if necessary with breaks in treatment) whether you should continue to take Tramadol hydrochloride Krka and at what dose. If you have the impression that the effect of Tramadol hydrochloride Krka is too strong or too weak, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. If you take more Tramadol hydrochloride Krka than you should If you have taken an additional dose by mistake, this will generally have no negative effects. You should take your next dose as prescribed. If you (or someone else) swallow a lot of Tramadol hydrochloride Krka tablets at the same time you should go to hospital or call a doctor straight away. Signs of an overdose include very small pupils, being sick, fall in blood pressure, fast heartbeat, collapse, unconsciousness, fits, and breathing difficulties or shallow breathing.

If you forget to take Tramadol hydrochloride Krka If you forget to take the tablets, pain is likely to return. Do not take a double dose to make up for forgotten individual doses, simply continue taking the tablets as before. If you stop taking Tramadol hydrochloride Krka If you interrupt or finish treatment with Tramadol hydrochloride Krka too soon, pain is likely to return. 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 you wish to stop treatment on account of unpleasant effects, please tell your doctor. Generally there will be no after-effects when treatment with Tramadol hydrochloride Krka is stopped. However, on rare occasions, people who have been taking Tramadol hydrochloride Krka for some time may feel unwell if they abruptly stop taking them. They may feel agitated, anxious, nervous or shaky. They may be hyperactive, have difficulty sleeping and have stomach or bowel disorders. Very few people may get panic attacks, hallucinations, unusual perceptions such as itching, tingling and numbness, and "ringing" in the ears (tinnitus). Further unusual CNS symptoms, i.e. confusion, delusions, change of perception of the own personality (depersonalisation), and change in perception of reality (derealisation) and delusion of persecution (paranoia) have been seen very rarely. If you experience any of these complaints after stopping Tramadol hydrochloride Krka, please consult your doctor. If you have any further questions on the use of this medicine, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Possible side effects

Like all medicines, this medicine can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. You should see a doctor immediately if you experience symptoms of an allergic reaction such as swollen face, tongue and/or throat, and/or difficulty swallowing or hives together with difficulties in breathing. Very common: may affect more than 1 in 10 people

  • dizziness
  • feeling sick (nausea) Common: may affect up to 1 in 10 people
  • headaches, drowsiness
  • fatigue
  • constipation, dry mouth, being sick (vomiting)
  • sweating (hyperhidrosis) Uncommon: may affect up to 1 in 100 people
  • effects on the heart and blood circulation (pounding of the heart, fast heartbeat, feeling faint or collapse). These adverse effects may particularly occur in patients in an upright position or under physical strain
  • urge to be sick (retching), stomach trouble (e.g. feeling of pressure in the stomach, bloating), diarrhoea
  • skin reactions (e.g. itching, rash) Rare: may affect up to 1 in 1,000 people
  • allergic reactions (e.g. difficulty in breathing, wheezing, swelling of skin) and shock (sudden circulation failure) have occurred in very rare cases
  • slow heartbeat
  • increase in blood pressure
  • abnormal sensations (e.g. itching, tingling, numbness), trembling, epileptic fits, muscle twitches, uncoordinated movement, transient loss of consciousness (syncope), speech disorders.
  • epileptic fits have occurred mainly at high doses of tramadol or when tramadol was taken at the same time as other medicines which may induce fits
  • changes in appetite
  • hallucination, confusional state, sleep disorders, delirium, anxiety and nightmares
  • psychological complaints may appear after treatment with Tramadol hydrochloride Krka. Their intensity and nature may vary (according to the patient's personality and length of therapy). These may appear as a change in mood (mostly high spirits, occasionally irritated mood), changes in activity (slowing down but sometimes an increase in activity) and decreased cognitive and sensory perception (being less aware and less able to make decisions, which may lead to errors in judgement)
  • drug dependence may occur. When treatment is stopped abruptly, signs of withdrawal may appear (see "If you stop taking Tramadol hydrochloride Krka")
  • blurred vision, excessive dilation of the pupils (mydriasis), constriction of the pupil (miosis)
  • slow breathing, shortness of breath (dyspnoea)
  • worsening of asthma has been reported, however it has not been established whether it was caused by tramadol. If the recommended doses are exceeded, or if other medicines that depress brain function are taken at the same time, breathing may slow down
  • weak muscles
  • passing urine with difficulty or pain, passing less urine than normal (dysuria) Very rare: may affect up to 1 in 10,000 people
  • hepatic enzymes increased Not known: frequency cannot be estimated from the available data
  • decrease in blood sugar level
  • 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 take Tramadol hydrochloride Krka"). Reporting of side effects If you get any side effects, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. This includes any possible side effects not listed in this leaflet. You can also report side effects directly via Yellow Card Scheme, Website: yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk 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 hydrochloride Krka

Keep this medicine 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 packaging after EXP. The expiry date refers to the last day of that month. This medicine does not require any special storage conditions. 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 hydrochloride Krka contains

  • The active substance is tramadol hydrochloride. Each prolonged-release tablet contains 100 mg tramadol hydrochloride. Each prolonged-release tablet contains 150 mg tramadol hydrochloride. Each prolonged-release tablet contains 200 mg tramadol hydrochloride.
  • The other ingredients are: hypromellose, microcrystalline cellulose, colloidal anhydrous silica, magnesium stearate in the tablet core and hypromellose, lactose monohydrate, titanium dioxide (E171), macrogol, triacetin, red iron oxide (E172) (only for 150 mg and 200 mg prolonged-release tablets), yellow iron oxide (E172) (only for 150 mg and 200 mg prolonged-release tablets) in the film coating. See section 2 "Tramadol hydrochloride Krka contains lactose". What Tramadol hydrochloride Krka looks like and contents of the pack Tramadol hydrochloride Krka 100 mg prolonged-release tablets: White, round, biconvex, film coated tablets with embossed mark T1 on one side of the tablet. Tablet diameter: approximately 10 mm. Tramadol hydrochloride Krka 150 mg prolonged-release tablets: Pale orange pink, round, biconvex, film coated tablets with embossed mark T2 on one side of the tablet. Tablet diameter: approximately 10 mm.

Tramadol hydrochloride Krka 200 mg prolonged-release tablets: Off pink, round, biconvex, film coated tablets with embossed mark T3 on one side of the tablet. Tablet diameter: approximately 10 mm. Tramadol hydrochloride Krka is available in boxes containing:

  • 10, 20, 28, 30, 50, 60, 90, 100 prolonged-release tablets in child-resistant blisters.
  • 10 x 1, 20 x 1, 28 x 1, 30 x 1, 50 x 1, 60 x 1, 90 x 1, 100 x 1 prolonged-release tablet in perforated unit dose child-resistant blister. Not all pack sizes may be marketed. Marketing Authorisation Holder and Manufacturer KRKA, d.d., Novo mesto, Šmarješka cesta 6, 8501 Novo mesto, Slovenia This leaflet was last revised in 01/2025.

xxxxxx

Frequently asked questions about Tramadol hydrochloride Krka 150 mg prolonged-release tablets

How do I take Tramadol hydrochloride Krka 150 mg prolonged-release tablets?

Tramadol hydrochloride Krka 150 mg prolonged-release tablets comes as tablet containing 150mg. 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 hydrochloride Krka 150 mg prolonged-release tablets?

The active substance in Tramadol hydrochloride Krka 150 mg prolonged-release tablets is tramadol hydrochloride.

Are there equivalent medicines to Tramadol hydrochloride Krka 150 mg prolonged-release tablets?

Medicines with the same active substance, strength and form include: Tramulief SR 150mg Tablets. 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 hydrochloride Krka 150 mg prolonged-release tablets, 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 hydrochloride Krka 150 mg prolonged-release tablets 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.

Tramadol hydrochloride Krka is indicated in adults and adolescents aged 12 years and older.

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 active substance should not be exceeded, except in special circumstances.

Unless otherwise prescribed, Tramadol hydrochloride Krka should be administered as follows:

Adults and adolescents above the age of 12 years:

The usual initial dose is 50-100 mg tramadol hydrochloride twice daily, morning and evening. If an initial dose lower than 100 mg is required, alternative tramadol hydrochloride containing product should be used. If pain relief is insufficient, the dose may be titrated upwards to 150 mg or 200 mg tramadol hydrochloride twice daily (see section 5.1).

Children

Tramadol hydrochloride Krka is not suitable for children below the age of 12 years.

Geriatric patients

A dose adjustment is not usually necessary in patients up to 75 years without clinically manifest hepatic or renal insufficiency. In elderly patients over 75 years elimination may be prolonged. Therefore, if necessary the dosage interval is to be extended according to the patient's 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 interval should be carefully considered according to the patients requirements. In cases of severe renal and/or severe hepatic insufficiency Tramadol hydrochloride Krka prolonged-release tablets are not recommended.

Method of administration

Oral use.

The tablets are to be taken whole, not divided or chewed, with sufficient liquid, independent of meals.

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.

Treatment goals and discontinuation

Before initiating treatment with Tramadol hydrochloride Krka, 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).

4.3. Contraindications

Tramadol hydrochloride Krka is contraindicated

- In hypersensitivity to the active substance or any of the excipients listed in section 6.1,

- In acute intoxication with alcohol, hypnotics, analgesics, opioids, or psychotropic medicinal products,

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

- In patients with epilepsy not adequately controlled by treatment,

- For use in narcotic withdrawal treatment.

4.4. Special warnings and precautions for use

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 tramadol should only be used with caution.

Convulsions have been reported in patients receiving tramadol at the recommended dose levels. The risk may be increased when doses of tramadol exceed the recommended upper daily dose limit (400 mg). In addition, tramadol may increase the seizure risk in patients taking other medicinal products that lowers the seizure threshold (see section 4.5). Patients with epilepsy or those susceptible to seizures should be only treated with tramadol if there are compelling circumstances.

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.

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 apnea (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.

Opioid-induced ventilatory impairment and persistent post-operative opioid use

Do not use for acute post-operative pain owing to the increased risk of persistent post-operative opioid use (PPOU) and opioid-induced ventilatory impairment (OIVI)

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.

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.

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

Concomitant use of tramadol and sedative medicines such as benzodiazepines or related drugs may result in sedation, respiratory depression, coma and death. Because of these risks, concomitant prescribing with these sedative medicines should be reserved for patients for whom alternative treatment options are not possible. If a decision is made to prescribe tramadol concomitantly with sedative medicines, the lowest effective dose should be used, and the duration of treatment should be as short as possible.

The patients should be followed closely for signs and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation. In this respect, it is strongly recommended to inform patients and their caregivers to be aware of these symptoms (see section 4.5).

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

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>.

This medicinal product contains lactose. Patients with rare hereditary problems of galactose intolerance, total lactase deficiency or glucose-galactose malabsorption should not take this medicine.

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

Tramadol should not be combined 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 on 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 hydrochloride Krka.

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

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

The concomitant use of opioids with sedative medicines such as benzodiazepines or related drugs increases the risk of sedation, respiratory depression, coma and death because of additive CNS depressant effect. The dose and duration of concomitant use should be limited (see section 4.4).

The concomitant use of Tramadol hydrochloride Krka 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 product (such as bupropion, mirtazapine, tetrahydrocannabinol) 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).

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.

Other active substances known to inhibit CYP3A4, such as ketoconazole and erythromycin, might inhibit the metabolism of tramadol (N-demethylation) 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).

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 revealed at very high doses 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. Chronic use during pregnancy may lead to neonatal withdrawal symptoms.

Breast-feeding

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 other psychotropic substances, particularly alcohol.

This medicine can impair cognitive function and can affect a patient's ability to drive safely. 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

In evaluating undesirable effects, the frequencies are defined as follows:

- 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, both occurring in more than 10 % of patients.

Very common

Common

Uncommon

Rare

Not known

Immune system disorders

Allergic reactions (e.g. dyspnoea, bronchospasm, wheezing, angioneurotic oedema) and anaphylaxis.

Metabolism and nutrition disorders

Changes in appetite.

Hypoglycaemia

Psychiatric disorders

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.1

Symptoms of drug withdrawal syndrome, similar to those occurring during opiate withdrawal, may occur as follows: 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).

Nervous system disorders

Dizziness.

Headache, somnolence.

Speech disorders, paraesthesia, tremor, epileptiform convulsions, involuntary muscle contractions, abnormal coordination, syncope.

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

Serotonin syndrome

Eye disorders

Miosis, mydriasis, blurred vision.

Cardiac disorders

Cardiovascular regulation (palpitation, tachycardia). These adverse reactions may occur especially on intravenous administration and in patients who are physically stressed.

Bradycardia.

Vascular disorders

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

Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders

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.

Hiccups.

Gastrointestinal disorders

Nausea.

Constipation, dry mouth, vomiting.

Retching; gastrointestinal discomfort (a feeling of pressure in the stomach, bloating), diarrhoea.

Hepatobiliary disorders

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

Hyperhidrosis.

Dermal reactions (e.g. pruritus, rash, urticaria).

Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders

Motorial weakness.

Renal and urinary disorders

Micturition disorders (dysuria and urinary retention).

General disorders and administration site conditions

Fatigue.

Investigations

Increase in blood pressure.

1Repeated use of Tramadol hydrochloride Krka 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 Yellow Card Scheme, Website: yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk 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.

Management

The general emergency measures apply. 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 haemo-filtration. Therefore treatment of acute intoxication with Tramadol hydrochloride Krka with haemodialysis or haemofiltration alone is not suitable for detoxification.

💬 Ask about this leaflet

Ask anything about Tramadol hydrochloride Krka 150 mg prolonged-release tablets. The assistant answers only from this leaflet — if the leaflet does not cover it, it will say so. It does not give medical advice.

Answers come from the patient leaflet published on the electronic medicines compendium (emc). They are not medical advice. Ask a pharmacist or your GP if you are unsure. For urgent help call NHS 111, or 999 in an emergency.

Pharmacies in major towns and cities — see the list
Pharmacies by county and region — see the full list

Browse all 2,009 towns and cities →