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Also indexed as: Ultram
Tramadol is a drug, unrelated to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or opiates, used to relieve moderate to moderately severe pain.
Summary of Interactions with Vitamins, Herbs, and Foods
In some cases, an herb or supplement may appear in more than one category, which may seem contradictory. For clarification, read the full article for details about the summarized interactions.
 Avoid: Adverse interaction—Avoid these supplements when taking this medication because taking them together may cause undesirable or dangerous results. | 5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP)* L-tryptophan* |
| Depletion or interference | None known |
| Side effect reduction/prevention | None known |
| Supportive interaction | None known |
| Reduced drug absorption/bioavailability | None known |
An asterisk (*) next to an item in the summary indicates that the interaction is supported only by weak, fragmentary, and/or contradictory scientific evidence.
5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) and L-tryptophan
Tramadol, which blocks serotonin reuptake in the brain, has been associated with two cases of serotonin syndrome.1 2 5-HTP and L-tryptophan are converted to serotonin in the brain. While no interactions have yet been reported with tramadol and 5-HTP or L-tryptophan, taking 5-HTP or L-tryptophan with tramadol may increase the risk of tramadol-induced side effects, including serotonin syndrome.
Food
Tramadol may be taken with or without food.3
Alcohol
Tramadol may impair mental ability and physical coordination.4 Alcohol may intensify these effects and increase the risk of accidental injury. People taking tramadol are cautioned to avoid alcohol.
1. Mason BJ, Blackburn KH. Possible serotonin syndrome associated with tramadol and sertraline coadministration. Ann Pharmacother 1997;31:175–7.
2. Hernandez AF, Montero MN, Pla A, Villanueva E. Fatal moclobemide overdose or death caused by serotonin syndrome? J Forensic Sci 1995;40:128–30.
3. Threlkeld DS, ed. Central Nervous System Drugs, Central Analgesics, Tramadol HCl. In Facts and Comparisons Drug Information. St. Louis, MO: Facts and Comparisons, May 1995, 246b–6f.
4. Threlkeld DS, ed. Central Nervous System Drugs, Central Analgesics, Tramadol HCl. In Facts and Comparisons Drug Information. St. Louis, MO: Facts and Comparisons, May 1995, 246b–6f.
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Learn more about the authors of Using Medicines with Vitamins and Herbs
The information presented in Aisle7 is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires February 2010.
