Do you suspect that you or someone close to you is addicted to tramadol, the psychoactive drug found in Ultram? How can you know for sure?
There are signs and symptoms to help you recognize Ultram addiction when you see it. In this article we explain the tell-tale signs that can alarm you when Ultram use has turned to abuse and/or addiction. Continue reading this article to learn more, and leave your questions at the end of the page.
Ultram addiction signs
Often, Ultram addiction can go unnoticed by close friend family, and even by the addicted individual. But if you think that you can abuse Ultram (main ingredient tramadol) without risking addiction… think again.
People DO become addicted to Ultram when not using it as directed. Some basic sigsn of misuse include:
- Taking Ultram MORE OFTEN than prescribed
- Taking Ultram IN HIGHER DOSES than prescribed
- Trying to snort, smoke, or inject Ultram
- Using an Ultram prescrition THAT IS NOT YOURS
But what is addiction in the first place? According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (a.k.a. The DSM-5 in its current version), addiction is a maladaptive pattern of substance use leading to clinically significant impairment or distress. Bascially, the brain adapts to a drug like Ultram in such a way that REGULAR USE takes precedence over many other things in life, even if your use is causing major disruptions or pain.
NOTE: Ultram is addictive! If you recognize several of these symptoms in yourself or in a loved one, it may be due to Ultram addiction. Here are a few signs that may suggest you are going down a slippery slope with this drug:
- Tolerance to Ultram is the user’s decreased response to the medication. Tolerance occurs when Ultram is used repeatedly and the body adapts to the continued presence of the medication.
- Ultram withdrawal signals drug dependence and consists of a predictable group of signs and symptoms that occur as a result of abrupt cessation or a rapid decrease of usual doses.
- Taking Ultram in larger amounts or for a longer period than intended.
- Feeling a persistent desire to cut down or control Ultram use, but efforts are unsuccessful.
- Spending a great deal of time doing activities necessary to obtain Ultram.
- Giving up important social, occupational, or recreational activities because of Ultram use.
- Ultram use is continued despite knowledge of potential or worsening physical or psychological problems.
If you recognize your behavior among these signs you should probably consider looking into treatment options for problems related to Ultram use.
Symptoms of Ultram addiction
An individual that abuses Ultram for a long period of time risks experiencing visible physical changes such as:
- appetite loss
- constipation
- depression
- dizziness
- fever
- muscle aches
- nausea and vomiting
- sweating
- trouble concentrating
NOTE: The key to recognizing Ultram addiction is change. Watch for any significant changes in the user’s physical appearance, personality, attitude or behavior.
Ultram addiction symptoms: Can they be treated?
Yes, help for Ultram addiction is available and effective.
Ultram treatment approaches are tailored to address each patient’s patterns and related medical, psychiatric, and social problems related to their specific case. Every individual responds differently to each treatment approach. While one person may need only a few counseling sessions, another might need a few months of residential setting.
The combination of behavioral therapy and medications has proven to be the most successful way of managing this chronic disease. But, based on the intensity of rehab required and the treatment setting, there are two types of treatment options:
1. Inpatient (residential) Ultram addiction treatment
Inpatient rehab for Ultram allows individuals to start their recovery process properly. Rather than just quitting Ultram cold turkey or by yourself, a certified medical detox facility is going to help you through the withdrawal process. Then, you will continue with behavioral therapies and psychotherapy within the same residential facility.
2. Outpatient Ultram addiction treatment
Outpatient rehab for Ultram addiction provides similar treatment. But, it doesn’t require you to move into a facility. Outpatient programs allow you to receive treatment and therapy at a clinic, and still maintain a normal work, school, and home routine. Outpatient rehab treatment can be a successful means of recovery mainly for individuals with a less severe case of Ultram addiction.
Signs of Ultram addiction questions
Still have questions about the signs and symptoms of Ultram addiction? Please share your questions and experiences in the comments section below. We try to respond to all legitimate inquiries in a personal and prompt manner.
Reference Sources: NCBI: Criteria for Substance Dependence
NIH: The Neurobiology of Drug Addiction
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