Tramadol — Drug Interactions, Alcohol & Pregnancy Guide
Last reviewed: · Source: US FDA drug label database · 247CanITakeWith Editorial Team
- Tramadol is a Opioid analgesic / SNRI used for Moderate to severe pain.
- Alcohol: Never mix tramadol and alcohol — the combination can cause dangerous respiratory depression and significantly increases overdose risk.
- Pregnancy: Avoid tramadol in pregnancy — prolonged use causes neonatal withdrawal, and use near delivery risks breathing problems in the newborn.
- This page covers 6 specific drug combinations with Tramadol.
About Tramadol
Tramadol is a prescription-only opioid with additional serotonin-noradrenaline reuptake inhibiting activity. It is a Class C controlled drug in the UK. It carries significant risks when combined with SSRIs (serotonin syndrome) and alcohol (respiratory depression).
Also sold as: Ultram, Tramacet (with paracetamol), Zydol
Tramadol at a glance
Tramadol is classed as opioid analgesic / snri and is used for moderate to severe pain, neuropathic pain. It is a prescription medicine, so doses and combinations should always be agreed with your prescriber or pharmacist.
Typical adult dosing guidance: 50-100mg every 4-6 hours, maximum 400mg in 24 hours. Your own label or prescription always takes priority over general figures.
Interactions most often flagged
- Sertraline
- Fluoxetine
- Diazepam
- Paracetamol
- Alcohol
- Pregabalin
- Gabapentin
Before you combine Tramadol with anything new
- Read the patient information leaflet for both products.
- Keep one up-to-date list of every medicine and supplement you take.
- Ask a pharmacist — it is free and takes a couple of minutes.
- Seek urgent medical help if you feel seriously unwell after combining medicines.
Tramadol and Alcohol
Never mix tramadol and alcohol — the combination can cause dangerous respiratory depression and significantly increases overdose risk.
Full guide →Tramadol in Pregnancy
Avoid tramadol in pregnancy — prolonged use causes neonatal withdrawal, and use near delivery risks breathing problems in the newborn.
Full guide →Tramadol — Drug Combinations
More in this category: painkillers
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Tramadol used for?
Tramadol is a Opioid analgesic / SNRI used for Moderate to severe pain, Neuropathic pain.
What is the maximum adult dose of Tramadol?
The maximum adult dose is 50-100mg every 4-6 hours, maximum 400mg in 24 hours. This is general guidance — always follow the dose on your prescription or product label, and check with a pharmacist if you're unsure.
Can I drink alcohol with Tramadol?
Never mix tramadol and alcohol — the combination can cause dangerous respiratory depression and significantly increases overdose risk.
Is Tramadol safe to take during pregnancy?
Avoid tramadol in pregnancy — prolonged use causes neonatal withdrawal, and use near delivery risks breathing problems in the newborn.
Is Tramadol available over the counter in the UK?
Tramadol is prescription-only in the UK.
What should I check before taking Tramadol with other medicines?
The interactions most often flagged for Tramadol are: sertraline, fluoxetine, diazepam, paracetamol, alcohol, pregabalin, gabapentin. Tell your pharmacist or prescriber about everything you take, including over-the-counter products, supplements and herbal remedies, before combining it with anything new.
What are the brand names for Tramadol?
Tramadol is sold under brand names including Ultram, Tramacet (with paracetamol), Zydol. The active ingredient is the same, so check labels carefully to avoid doubling up on it.
Do I need a prescription for Tramadol?
Tramadol is a prescription medicine, so take it exactly as your prescriber directed and ask them before changing the dose.
Not sure if Tramadol is safe with your other medications?
HealthLabs.com lets you check liver enzyme or kidney function levels before combining medications long-term — no GP referral needed.
Check your levels at HealthLabs →Always speak to your pharmacist or GP for personalised medical advice. Affiliate link — we may earn a commission.