As an ex codeine addict its very important to me not to get addicted to another drug. I have been taking prescribe Tramadol 50mg 4 to 6 tablets a day for 10 days and have just done some reading on its addictive nature. If I stop today c/t will I be ok and in the clear? I dont want to develop another addiction to pain meds. Id rather be in pain as I know how bad withdrawal can get.
How long do you need to take tramadol to develop a physical addiction?
Question posted by sar121 on 17 July 2011
Last updated on 22 July 2013 by Bloodpump
Added 17 July 2011:
Also, I do realise 10 days does not seem like long but I am fear driven as I am so scared after my previous addictions.
Answers
Bloodpump
22 July 2013
Should be a walk in the park compared with codene. If it had neen a uear pr more then it would be the same
LaurieShay
17 July 2011
Hey sar,
Since you were taking 200 to 300 mgs a day, you may experience some withdrawal. It would be best to taper off the tramadol thus avoiding any problems. Tramadol can be addictive and can cause seizures if stopped abruptly. You haven't been on it for long so you are probably ok, but to be safe I would reduce by 100mgs every three days, getting you off the tramadol in about the same amount of time you have been on it.
Laurie
caringsonbj
17 July 2011
I agree with Laurie given your past history I (live and fight taking more than I just have to) so if you can I think by reducing then you may not have to cope with stronger withdrawls I wish you the very best and admire your courage
sar121
17 July 2011
Thanks Laurie,
unfortunately I was too scared to keep taking them because of fear of addiction and I am having some withdrawal now. Diarhoea and sweats so far. Nothing Im not used to. Do you know how long the Tramadol withdrawal lasts for? Its been about 36 hours since my last dose so I may as well just get on with it and get it out of my system. Ive been doing physio and swimming, stretching etc for a few months anyway so I am managing to keep my pain under control for now. Seems dumb to get addicted to another drug unless absolutely necessary. Cant believe Im here again though. Really mad at my Doctor as I told her specifically not to give me codeine or opiate based meds as I have trouble getting off them I trusted she chose the riht pain med for me. guess I should have done my research before I took them. You dont think too straight though when you are in pain.
LaurieShay
17 July 2011
Hey sar,
It may take upto a week or so before the withdrawals are over. You can always start it again and taper. I understand not wanting to do that though. Seems like many docs are under the impression that tramadol is not addictive, but guess what? IT IS, lol, as you now know. Not a laughing matter when you feel so poorly. Hang in there, it will gradually get better.
Laurie
sar121
17 July 2011
Thanks for your support. I just feel so bad that I am in this place of withdrawal again. I thought I was past this. Anyway, Ill be more careful with pain meds in the future. Thanks again for your advice.
Sar
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