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Is Tramadol A Narcotic Or Controlled Substance?

Isaac Alexis, M.D., AAMA, AMP-BC

Medically reviewed by

Isaac Alexis, M.D., AAMA, AMP-BC

June 3, 2019

Tramadol is an opioid analgesic used to treat mild to moderate pain. As an opioid, this medication is considered both a narcotic and a controlled substance. Tramadol comes with the potential for abuse and addiction. Formal treatment is often needed to overcome Tramadol addiction.

Tramadol is a medication used in the treatment of mild to moderate pain. This drug is an opioid, making it both a controlled substance and a narcotic.

Tramadol works by changing the way the brain and body perceive pain. By binding to opioid receptors in the brain, this drug reduces feelings of pain and creates feelings of calm and pleasure.

This medication is available in both immediate and extended-release versions. Extended-release Tramadol is most commonly used to treat round-the-clock pain.

Brand names of Tramadol include Ultram, ConZip, and Ultram ER. This medication is considered one of the least potent opioids available; however, abuse and addiction are still possible when Tramadol is misused.

Is Tramadol A Narcotic?

The term narcotic is used synonymously with opioids and opiates like morphine and codeine. “Narcotic” can also be used to characterize illicit opioids such as heroin. Narcotics that are legally obtained, such as through a prescription, are highly regulated.

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As an opioid, Tramadol is considered a narcotic. While not as dangerous as other narcotics like heroin or morphine, this drug is still regulated and should be used with caution.

Is Tramadol A Controlled Substance?

While originally not classified as a controlled substance, Tramadol is now considered a controlled substance in the United States. This is due to the drug’s addictive properties and risk for abuse and dependence.

Tramadol is a Schedule IV controlled substance. This means that it has a relatively low potential for abuse and addiction compared to other controlled substances. For example, many other opioids are classified as Schedule II controlled substances for their high risk of abuse and addiction. Due to Tramadol’s relatively lower potency, it is less regulated than other opioids.

Getting Treatment For Tramadol Addiction

If you or a loved one is struggling with an addiction to Tramadol, there are several treatment options available to consider. Many people struggling with opioid addiction will find the most success through a formal treatment program.

Formal treatment often includes a medically supervised detox program as well as an inpatient program. Inpatient treatment incorporates various forms of therapy and other addiction counseling to address every aspect of a person’s condition.

To learn more about whether Tramadol is a narcotic or a controlled substance, contact a treatment specialist today.

RxList - Tramadol

Pharmacy Times - DEA Classifies Tramadol as a Schedule IV Controlled Substance

MedlinePlus - Tramadol

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