Not a problem! I am in Australia and on disability so luckily for me if the medicine is on the PBS it’s only about $5.90 to buy. I would ask about migraine tablets and see if you are covered for any of them. The relpax works really well on the debilitating migraines I was getting. Good luck! I hope you get the help you need. Hugs!
Hi L-Kitty. Tramadol and Ultram are the same drug. Tramadol is the generic, chemical name. Ultram is the name brand for tramadol. It is weaker than Vicodin (generic hydrocodone) and is a non-narcotic. As for cost, the difference depends on name brand/generic, what pharmacy, the quality, and your insurance. But side by side, you're right, the vicodin is cheaper because it's been around so much longer and the patent rights expire after ten years. At that point, other drug companies can make their generic equivalent of it. Well, the GENERIC version of vicodin would be cheaper than the GENERIC version of Ultram (tramadol).
Irma, have you ever tried warm wax dips for your hand pain? I don't know all the details of how to do it or even where to get the right kind and so on but you could research it on the internet. All I know is that I have seen once or twice people on t.v. that will warm up some wax and dip their hands. It seals in the heat but I don't know for how long at a time. Maybe that would help your hands? : )
Hi Laurie,
I have been reading the replies to your inquiry about tramadol. I decided it was my turn. You see I have two points of view on tramadol: one as a patient who takes it and one as a forensic chemist that works in a lab that provides testing of biological samples to confirm that the individual being tested has ingested tramadol. please note I am NOT a health care provider.
I take tramadol to deal with my pain. I have been fortunate in that it works for me. The only thing is I have to take it on a regular schedule. it is not nearly as effective in a single dose. I have also found that it does not have the significant gastric side effects like hydrocodone. (nausea and constipation). I can take the tramadol regularly for 2 to 3 weeks to deal with a flare and then just stop taking it without any ill effects.
Ultram is the brand name for tramadol. Tramadol is a non narcotic pain reliever. Some of the literature says that the tramadol acts on the pain receptors in a manner similar to that of morphine. Our bodies metabolize tramadol to two primary metabolites. I will not bore you with the names of the metabolites. One of the metabolites is what is called an active metabolite. It behaves as if it were a drug in its own rite. This is what probably explains it working better when taken on a regular schedule as opposed to a single dose.
Gentle hugs.
Shadows Mom
HI luv - Would the extended release of Tramadol work best for me, if I were to take it? I don't see my nurse, Megan for a couple of weeks. I usually see her every 2 months, but with all that is going on with me and the FIbro, I see her once a month - sometimes twice, if I have been really sick. I really adore her and she is so nice and kind to me - which is SO rare today in the Medical field! Love, Laurie (hugs)
Hi Shadows!! You have really made an impression on me. Forensic Chemist?? Wow! Thanks so much for giving me the information about Tramadol. I am going to write all that down to talk to my nurse, Megan about. I am getting such great feedback on things that I am concerned about! I DO understand that you are not a health provider! (smile). Thanks again! Laurie
Laurie, I would consult with your nurse as to which type of Tramadol you should take. Personally, I think if a person is in constant pain then they should have a dose of the medication in their system on a regular basis. But if the pain is intermittent then probably I would take the regular. Your Nurse sounds like she's very good at what she does so she can better advise you. So, the hydrocodone doesn't work for your fibro? Only on your headaches? Because in some people, hydrocodone can cause a headache so for them the tramadol would work better for their fibro. Hope this helps!
Hi Robin, I took Tramadol for a couple of years, it was no miracle , but like for you, it took the edge off. Just to make all aware. I went to the dentist and was given Nitrous Oxide. Within minutes I had a seizure and ended up in the hospital. The Neurologist said that Tramadol has a high rate of causing seizures. I was lucky that it happened inthe dentist office, the N.O. lowered my threshold and allowed the seizure to happen. So just beware that even if you have had no side affects to it, it can happen.
Dianne
Hi Laurie, I used Tramadol once however my psychiatrist strongly advised against using this medication as there are so many side effects associated with it. You can google the meds and get your own opinion. I must admit that it did help though. I’m still using Cymbalta & Lyrica though. plus Ametreptyline for sleep.
All of the best !!