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.

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Tramulief SR 150mg 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 it is and what it is used for

FOR Tramadol, the active substance in Tramulief SR is a pain killer belonging to the class of opioids that acts on the central nervous system. It relieves pain by acting on specific nerve cells of the brain and spinal cord. Tramulief SR is used for the treatment of moderate to severe pain.

What you need to know before you take it

E TRAMULIEF SR Do not take Tramulief SR: 

if you are allergic to tramadol hydrochloride or any of the other ingredients of this medicine (listed in section 6);

in acute poisoning with alcohol, sleeping pills, pain relievers, or other psychotropic medicines (medicines that affect mood and emotions);

if you are also taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) (certain medicines used for the treatment of depression) or have taken them in the last 14 days before treatment with Tramulief SR (see "Other medicines and Tramulief SR ");

if you are an epileptic 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 Tramulief SR if: 

you suffer from consciousness disorders (if you feel that you are going to faint);

you are in a state of shock (cold sweat may be a sign of this);

you suffer from increased pressure in the brain (possibly after a head injury or brain disease);

you suffer from a liver or kidney disease;

you have difficulty in breathing;

you have a tendency towards epilepsy or fits, because the risk of a fit may increase;

you are taking any medicine from the group of medicines known as benzodiazepines. Taking these medicines with Tramadol SR may result in sedation, difficulties in breathing (respiratory depression), coma and may be fatal. Even if benzodiazepines are prescribed, your doctor may need to change the dose, the duration of treatment or monitor you regularly.

you suffer from depression and you are taking antidepressants as some of them may interact with tramadol (see 'Other medicines and Tramulief SR').

Do not use Tramulief SR for sudden pain after surgery because it can increase the chances of becoming dependent on opioids and having trouble breathing. Contact your doctor on guidance for alternate medicines. 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 Tramulief SR can also lead to dependence, abuse and addiction, which may result in lifethreatening 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 Tramulief SR 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 Tramulief SR, 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 Tramulief SR). 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'). Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you experience any of the following symptoms while taking Tramulief SR: 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. 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).

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. Sleep-related breathing disorders Tramulief SR 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. Children and adolescents 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 Tramulief SR: Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking, or have recently taken, any other medicines Tramulief SR should not be taken together with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) (certain medicines for the treatment of depression). Concomitant use of Tramadol SR 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 SR 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.

The pain-relieving effect of Tramulief SR may be reduced and the length of time it acts may be shortened, if you also take medicines containing: 

carbamazepine (for epileptic fits);

buprenorphine, nalbuphine, or pentazocine (pain relievers);

ondansetron (prevents nausea).

Your doctor will tell you whether you should take Tramulief SR and at what dose. The risk of side effects increases: 

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 Tramulief SR at the same time. Your doctor will tell you whether Tramulief SR is suitable for you;

 if you are taking gabapentin or pregabalin to treat epilepsy or pain due to nerve problems (neuropathic pain). 

if you are taking certain antidepressants. Tramulief SR may interact with these medicines and you may experience serotonin syndrome (see section 4 'Possible side effects').

if you take coumarin anticoagulants (medicines for blood thinning), such as warfarin, together with Tramulief SR. These medicines may have an effect on blood clotting and bleeding may occur.

if you take tranquillizers, sleeping pills, other pain relievers such as morphine and codeine (also as cough medicine), and alcohol while you are taking Tramulief SR. You might feel drowsier or feel that you might faint. If this happens tell your doctor.

Tramulief SR with food and alcohol Do not drink alcohol during treatment with Tramulief SR as its effect may be intensified. Food does not influence the effect of Tramulief SR. Pregnancy and breast-feeding 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. Pregnancy There is very little information regarding the safety of tramadol in human pregnancy. Therefore, you should not use Tramulief SR 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 more than once during breast-feeding, or alternatively, if you take Tramadol SR more than once, you should stop breast-feeding. Driving and using machines Tramulief SR can 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 any 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.

How to take it

TRAMULIEF SR Always use this medicine exactly as your doctor or pharmacist has told you. 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 Tramulief SR, 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 your pain and your individual pain sensitivity. In general, the lowest pain-relieving dose should be taken. Unless otherwise prescribed by your doctor, the recommended dose is: Adults and adolescents from the age of 12 years: One Tramulief SR 100 mg tablet twice daily (equivalent to 200 mg tramadol hydrochloride per day), preferably in the morning and evening. One Tramulief SR 150 mg tablet twice daily (equivalent to 300 mg tramadol hydrochloride per day), preferably in the morning and evening. One Tramulief SR 200 mg tablet twice daily (equivalent to 400 mg tramadol hydrochloride per day), preferably in the morning and evening.

Your doctor may prescribe a different, more appropriate dosage strength of Tramulief SR if necessary. Do not take more than 400 mg tramadol hydrochloride daily, unless your doctor has instructed you to do so. Use in children Tramulief SR 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 Tramulief SR. If in your case the insufficiency is mild or moderate, your doctor may recommend prolonging the dosage interval. How and when should you take Tramulief SR? Tramulief SR tablets are for oral use. Always swallow Tramulief SR 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 Tramulief SR for? You should not take Tramulief SR 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 Tramulief SR tablets and at what dose. If you have the impression that the effect of Tramulief SR is too strong or too weak, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. If you take more Tramulief SR 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.

After taking very high doses, pin-point pupils, vomiting, fall in blood pressure, fast heart beat, collapse, disturbed consciousness up to coma (deep unconsciousness), epileptic fits, and difficulty in breathing up to cessation of breathing may occur. In such cases a doctor should be called immediately.

If you forget to take Tramulief SR 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 tablets as before. If you stop taking Tramulief SR 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). Generally, there will be no after – effects when treatment with Tramulief SR is stopped. However, on rare occasions, people who have been taking Tramulief SR tablets for some time may feel unwell if they stop taking them abruptly. They may feel agitated, anxious, nervous or shaky. They may be confused, hyperactive, have difficulty sleeping and have stomach or bowel disorders. Rarely, people may get panic attacks, hallucinations, delusions, paranoia or feel a loss of identity. They may experience 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 one's own personality (depersonalization), 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 Tramulief SR, please consult your doctor. If you have any further questions on the use of this medicine, ask your doctor or pharmacist. 4. POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS Like all medicines, this medicine can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. Usually the frequency of side effects is classified as follows:

  • very common (may affect more than 1 in 10 people);
  • common (may affect up to 1 in 10 people);
  • uncommon (may affect up to 1 in 100 people);
  • rare (may affect up to 1 in 1,000 people);
  • very rare (may affect up to 1 user in 10,000 people);
  • not known (frequency cannot be estimated from the available data). 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. The most common side effects during treatment with Tramulief SR are nausea and dizziness, which occur in more than 1 out of 10 patients. Other side effects include: Very common (may affect more than 1 in 10 people): 

dizziness

nausea

feeling sick.

Common (may affect up to 1 in 10 people): 

headaches

drowsiness

constipation

dry mouth

being sick

sweating

fatigue

low energy (weakness).

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)

urge to vomit (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): 

slow heartbeat

increase in blood pressure

changes in appetite

abnormal sensations (e.g. itching, tingling, numbness)

trembling, slow breathing

epileptic fits

muscle twitches

uncoordinated movement

transient loss of consciousness (syncope)

hallucinations

confusion

anxiety and nightmares

psychological complaints

change in mood (mostly high spirits, occasionally irritated mood)

changes in activity (usually suppression, occasionally increase)

dependence

miosis (excessive constriction of the pupil of the eye)

blurred vision

shortness of breath (dyspnoea)

weak muscles

passing urine with difficulty or pain

passing less urine than normal

allergic reactions (e.g. difficulty in breathing, wheezing, swelling of skin)

shock (sudden circulation failure).

Very rare (may affect up to 1 user in 10,000 people) 

increase in liver enzyme values

shock (sudden circulation failure).

Not known (frequency cannot be estimated based on available data):

decrease in blood sugar level

speech disorders

excessive dilation of the pupils (mydriasis).

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 Tramulief SR').

When treatment is stopped abruptly signs of withdrawal may appear (see "If you stop taking Tramulief SR"). Reporting of side effects If you get any of the side effects talk to your doctor or pharmacist. This includes any possible

Possible side effects

not listed in this leaflet. You can also report side effects directly via the yellow card Scheme at: 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

TRAMULIEF SR 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 blister and / or bottle and the carton 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 to protect the environment.

Contents of the pack and other information

What Tramulief SR contains: The active substance is tramadol hydrochloride. •

1 tablet of Tramulief SR 100 mg contains 100 mg tramadol hydrochloride.

•

1 tablet of Tramulief SR 150 mg contains 150 mg tramadol hydrochloride.

•

1 tablet of Tramulief SR 200 mg contains 200 mg tramadol hydrochloride.

The other ingredients are: calcium hydrogen phosphate (E341), hydroxypropyl cellulose (E463), colloidal anhydrous silica (E551), and magnesium stearate (E470b). What Tramulief SR looks like and contents of the pack Tramulief SR 100 mg tablets are off white, round biconvex tablets. Tramulief SR 150 mg tablets are off white, capsule-shaped tablets. Tramulief SR 200 mg tablets are off white, capsule-shaped tablets. Tramulief SR 100 mg: packs of 10, 20, 30, 50, 60, 90, 100, 120, 180 or 500 white tablets in blisters or in plastic tablet containers. Tramulief SR 150 mg: packs of 10, 20, 30, 50, 60, 90, 100, 120, 180 or 500 white tablets in blisters or in plastic tablet containers. Tramulief SR 200 mg: packs of 10, 20, 30, 50, 60, 90, 100, 120, 180 or 500 white tablets in blisters or in plastic tablet containers. Not all pack sizes may be marketed. Marketing Authorisation Holder and manufacturer: MA Holder: Amdipharm UK Limited, Dashwood House, 69 Old Broad Street, London, EC2M 1QS, United Kingdom Manufacturers: Farmaceutisch Analytisch Laboratorium Duiven B.V, Dijkgraaf 30, Duiven, The Netherlands Medochemie Ltd., Facility A-Z, Mich. Erakleois, Ayios Athanassios Industrial Area, Limassol, Cyprus.

This leaflet was last revised in April 2025.

Frequently asked questions about Tramulief SR 150mg Tablets

How do I take Tramulief SR 150mg Tablets?

Tramulief SR 150mg 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 Tramulief SR 150mg Tablets?

The active substance in Tramulief SR 150mg Tablets is tramadol hydrochloride.

Are there equivalent medicines to Tramulief SR 150mg Tablets?

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

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.

Unless otherwise prescribed, Tramulief SR prolonged-release tablets should be given as follows:

Adults and adolescents older than 12 years:

The usual initial dose is 50 - 100mg tramadol hydrochloride twice daily, morning and evening. If pain relief is insufficient, the dose may be titrated upwards to 150 mg or 200 mg tramadol hydrochloride twice daily.

For doses not practicable with this strength, other strengths of this medicinal product are available.

Tramulief SR prolonged-release tablets should be swallowed completely, without breaking or chewing, independent of meals, with sufficient liquid.

Daily doses of 400 mg of active substance should not be exceeded, except in special clinical circumstances.

Under no circumstances should Tramulief SR be used for longer than absolutely necessary.

Paediatric population

Tramulief SR is not suitable for children under the age of 12 years

Elderly

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 impairment

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 patient's requirements.

Method of administration

Oral use

Treatment goals and discontinuation

Before initiating treatment with Tramulief SR, 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

Tramulief SR prolonged-release tablets are contraindicated:

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

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

- in patients 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

Tramulief SR 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 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 only be treated with tramadol if there are compelling circumstances.

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.

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

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.

Risk from concomitant use of sedative medicines such as benzodiazepines or related drugs:

Concomitant use of Tramulief SR tablets 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 Tramulief SR tablets 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).

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.

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.

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 effectsof 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

Prevalence %

African/Ethiopian

29%

African American

3.4% to 6.5%

Asian

1.2% to 2%

Caucasian

3.6% to 6.5%

Greek

6.0%

Hungarian

1.9%

Northern European

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.

Persistent post-operative opioid use (PPOU) and opioid-induced ventilatory impairment (OIVI).

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).

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.

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

Tramulief SR 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 Tramulief SR as with MAO inhibitors cannot be ruled out during treatment with Tramulief SR.

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

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

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 the action.

The combination of mixed agonists/antagonists (e.g. buprenorphine, nalbuphine, pentazocine) and tramadol is not advisable because the analgesic effect of a pure agonist may be theoretically reduced in such circumstances.

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, 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) 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).

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.

Sedative medicines such as benzodiazepines or related drugs:

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).

4.6. Fertility, pregnancy and lactation

Pregnancy

Animal studies with tramadol revealed at very high doses effects on organ development, ossification and neonatal mortality. Teratogenic effects were not observed. Tramadol crosses the placenta. There is inadequate evidence available on the safety of tramadol in human pregnancy. Therefore Tramulief SR 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.

4.7. Effects on ability to drive and use machines

Even when taken according to instructions, Tramulief SR 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 and 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:

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

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

o It was not affecting your ability to drive safely

4.8. Undesirable effects

The most commonly reported adverse reactions are nausea and dizziness, both occurring in more than 10% of patients.

The frequencies are defined as follows:

Very common: ≥1/10

Common: ≥1/100, <1/10

Uncommon: ≥1/1,000, <1/100

Rare: ≥1/10,000, <1/1,000

Very rare (< 1/10,000)

Not known (cannot be estimated from the available data)

A tabulated list of undesirable effects is outlined below:

System Organ Class

Frequency

Adverse reactions

Metabolism and nutrition disorders

Not known

Hypoglycaemia

Psychiatric disorders

Rare

Delirium, hallucinations, confusion, sleep disturbance, anxiety, nightmares, changes in mood (elation, occasionally dysphoria), changes in activity (suppression, decision behaviour, perception disorders), Dependence

Nervous system disorders

Very common

Dizziness

Common

Headache, somnolence

Rare

changes in appetite, paraesthesia, tremor, respiratory depression, epileptiform convulsions, involuntary muscle contractions, abnormal coordination and syncope

Not known

Serotonin syndrome, Speech disorders

Eye disorders

Rare

Miosis, blurred vision

Not known

Mydriasis

Cardiovascular disorders

Uncommon

Palpitation, tachycardia, postural hypotension or cardiovascular collapse

Rare

Bradycardia, increase in blood pressure.

Respiratory thoracic and mediastinal disorders

Rare

Dyspnoea

Not known

Hicupps

Gastrointestinal disorders:

Very common

Nausea

Common

Constipation, dry mouth, vomiting

Uncommon

Retching, gastrointestinal irritation (a feeling of pressure in the stomach, bloating), diarrhoea

Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders

Common

Sweating

Uncommon

Dermal reactions (Pruritus, rash, urticaria)

Musculoskeletal disorders:

Rare

Motorial weakness

Renal and urinary disorders

Rare

Micturition disorders (difficulty in passing urine, dysuria and urinary retention).

Hepatobiliary disorders

Very rare

Elevated liver enzymes

General disorders

Common

Fatigue

Rare

Allergic reactions (e.g. dyspnoea, bronchospasm, wheezing, angioneurotic oedema), anaphylaxis, withdrawal reactions (agitation, anxiety, nervousness, insomnia, hyperkinesia, tremor and gastrointestinal symptoms.)

Very rare

Panic attacks, severe anxiety, hallucinations, paraesthesia's, tinnitus, CNS symptoms (confusion, delusions, depersonalization, derealization, paranoia)

Drug dependence

Repeated use of Tramulief SR 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 yellow card Scheme at: www.mhra.gov.uk/yellowcard or search for MHRA Yellow Card in the Google Play or Apple App Store.

4.9. Overdose

Symptoms

In tramadol intoxication, in principle, the same symptoms occur as for all other central acting analgesics (opioids). In particular, these include 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 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 haemofiltration. Therefore treatment of acute intoxication with Tramulief SR with haemodialysis or haemofiltration alone is not suitable for detoxification.

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