Ultram (main ingredient tramadol) is classified as a Schedule IV drug under the Controlled Substances Act. This official status assigns Ultram as a drug with low potential for abuse and low risk for forming dependence. However, by underestimating it’s addictive abilities, many users have become addicted. So, what do you do if you find yourself hooked on this form of tramadol?
Are you facing difficulties with Ultram? Need information on how to deal with it? Don’t worry! There is way to help yourself, an addicted friend, or a loved one.
In this article, we discuss what Ultram addiction treatment looks like and what you can do about it. All of your questions are welcomed at the end. In fact, we try to answer legitimate questions about Ultram problems with a PERSONAL and PROMPT reply.
How to help Ultram addiction
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, addiction can be defined as a combination of chemical dependency and the uncontrollable urge to consume a specific substance.
CHEMICAL DEPENDENCY – A person who is addicted to Ultram can physically feel as if s/he cannot function normally without using it continuously. This physical need for Ultram is a hallmark sign of physical dependence. Ultram dependence is clinically recognized by the occurrence of withdrawal symptoms. In fact, you can test for dependence by missing a dose of Ultram. Symptoms like sweating, tremors, or nausea are the first sign that a person has become chemically dependent.
CRAVINGS AND URGES – Addiction to Ultram often includes cravings during the period of abstinence. Psychological dependency is defined as a form of compulsion that involves emotional and motivational symptoms, such as:
- anxiety
- becoming silent or withdrawn
- decreased motivation
- dissatisfaction
- dysphoria
- reduced capacity to experience pleasure
- sudden mood swings
- unexplained change in personality or attitude
How do you help treat addiction to Ultram?
Treatment for Ultram addiction follows a usual protocol consisting of three (3) main phases: Addressing withdrawal in the user, physically stabilizing the user, and addressing the behavior and thoughts that drive it.
1. Ultram withdrawal treatment
After taking Ultram regularly for a few weeks or more, users develop a tolerance to the main ingredient, tramadal. After regular use, the brain adapts to the constant presence of Ultram. When the drug is suddenly stopped, the person experiences withdrawal symptoms, which can take a few days to resolve.
Most doctors recommend tapering off of Ultram instead of stopping abruptly to make the withdrawal less painful. Going through Ultram detoxification is similar to catching a common flu. However, withdrawal can sometimes be dangerous and might involve serious withdrawal effects, such as
- severe anxiety
- hallucinations
- panic attacks
Knowing this, it is highly advised to go through Ultram detox under medical care instead of doing it by yourself.
2. Physical stabilization and Treatment of Ultram PAWS
Protracted withdrawal symptoms (PAWS) may come as a result of prolonged Ultram use. These symptoms include depression or mood disorders. After the acute withdrawal stage, chronic Ultram users might experience insomnia, anxiety, or depression which are usually regulated with prescription medications.
3. Psychological Ultram addiction treatment
Counseling and psychotherapy are a part of Ultram addiction treatment. Sessions are guided by a psychologist, psychiatrist, or a licensed counselor. The psychological part of an Ultram addiction treatment focuses on:
- Developing strategies to avoid Ultram abuse
- Developing strategies to prevent relapse and learn how to deal with it in case it occurs
- Discussing issues regarding a person’s job, legal problems and relationships
- Helping the individual cope with cravings
- Involving family members and helping them develop better communication skills
Getting help for Ultram addiction
Most people who are having problems with Ultram seek professional help after several failed attempts to quit on their own. But you don’t have to be at the end of our rope to ask for help! Treatment works and you can get the help you need at any time.
The goal of every addiction treatment is to help the individual reach long term sobriety and return to their work and family obligations. So, who do you ask for help? When looking for help to deal with yours or someone else’s Ultram problem, you can always contact:
- Addiction specialist
- Addiction treatment center
- Friends and family
- Psychiatrist or psychologist
- Social worker
- Trusted religious or community leader
How to help an Ultram addict
1. If you suspect your friend or loved one has developed an Ultram addiction one way to help them is by offering support and willingness to be a part of their recovery journey.
2. Another important step you should take is educating yourself about Ultram addiction and ways to treat it. Gathering information can help you learn how to approach your friend or loved one and offer him/her treatment alternatives.
3. If you want to help an Ultram addicted friend or family member who is in denial of the problem, you might want to consider staging an intervention. You can gather a group of people who want to help and along with the help of an addictions counselor, social worker, psychologist, or interventionist you can organize an effective intervention. Interventions aim to suggest the best approach, provide guidance for choosing the most appropriate type of treatment, and create follow-up plans.
4. Support groups such as SMART Recovery or 12 step groups like N.A. (Narcotics Anonymous) or Al-Anon can also help. As a participant in these groups, addicts and their loved ones have the opportunity to meet others who are struggling with substance abuse. Listening and sharing stories might help your loved one get their own lives back on track.
Ultram addiction help and helplines
When looking for Ultram addiction treatment you can always use The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) as a resource. Their website http://findtreatment.samhsa.gov/ is a great place to find certified treatment facilities and legal help. You can also reach SAMHSA on 1-800-273-TALK
If you feel that your addiction is leading to suicidal ideation and action – please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-TALK(8255)
Help with Ultram addiction questions
Still have question about Ultram addiction help? Please share your questions and experiences in the comments section below. We try to answer all legitimate inquiries personally and promptly.
Reference Sources: SAMHSA: Treatments for Substance Use Disorders
SMHSA: Behavioral Health Treatments and Services
FDA: Ultram (tramadol hydrochloride) tablets
NCBI: Acute abstinence syndrome following abrupt cessation of long-term use of tramadol (Ultram): a case study.
NCBI: Physical dependence on Ultram (tramadol hydrochloride): both opioid-like and atypical withdrawal symptoms occur.
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