Tramadol is a morphine-like painkiller forming part of the class of drugs known as opioid analgesics. It is a moderate to strong painkiller that acts in the central nervous system within the spinal cord and brain. Tramadol is prescribed to treat severe sudden or long-term pain, e.g. pain resulting from serious injury, surgery or cancer, as well as to treat neuralgia and joint pain caused by arthrosis. It can also help to treat premature ejaculation.
Tramadol and the benefit of DNA analysis
The rate at which tramadol is processed within your body varies from one individual to another. This means that the efficacy and side effects of tramadol can be predicted to some extent on the basis of your genes.
Preventive DNA analysis can therefore be an important tool in optimising your medication.
Tramadol and the enzyme CYP2D6
Tramadol is processed to a large extent by the enzyme CYP2D6. The activity of this enzyme can vary considerably depending on your genetic predisposition, which means the efficacy of tramadol can also differ from person to person.
Information about your genetic predisposition may therefore provide grounds for extra vigilance in relation to a treatment with tramadol.
Read more about CYP2D6 enzyme »
Also known as
Tramal, Tramagetic, Zaldiar,Tramadol/Paracetamol, Rybix, ConZip, Durela, Ralivia, Ryzolt, Tridural, Ultram