Also indexed as: Dromadol SR®, Tramake Insts®,
Tramake®, Ultram®, Zamadol SR®, Zamadol®, Zydol SR®, Zydol XL®,
Zydol®
Tramadol is a drug, unrelated to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or opiates, used to relieve moderate to moderately severe
pain.
Summary of
Interactions with Vitamins, Herbs, and Foods
In some cases, an herb or supplement may appear in more than one category, which may seem
contradictory. For clarification, read the full article for details about the summarized
interactions.
 Avoid: Adverse interaction—Avoid these supplements
when taking this medication because taking them together may cause undesirable or dangerous
results. |
5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP)*
L-tryptophan*
|
| Depletion or interference |
None known
|
| Side effect reduction/prevention |
None known
|
| Supportive interaction |
None known
|
| Reduced drug
absorption/bioavailability |
None known
|
An asterisk (*) next to an item in the summary indicates that the
interaction is supported only by weak, fragmentary, and/or contradictory scientific
evidence.
Interactions with Dietary Supplements
5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) and
L-tryptophan
Tramadol, which blocks serotonin reuptake in the brain, has been associated with two cases of
serotonin syndrome.1 2 5-HTP and L-tryptophan are converted to serotonin
in the brain. While no interactions have yet been reported with tramadol and 5-HTP or
L-tryptophan, taking 5-HTP or L-tryptophan with tramadol may increase the risk of
tramadol-induced side effects, including serotonin syndrome.
Interactions with Foods and Other Compounds
Food
Tramadol may be taken with or without food.3
Alcohol
Tramadol may impair mental ability and physical coordination.4 Alcohol may
intensify these effects and increase the risk of accidental injury. People taking tramadol are
cautioned to avoid alcohol.
References
1. Mason BJ, Blackburn KH. Possible serotonin syndrome associated with
tramadol and sertraline coadministration. Ann Pharmacother 1997;31:175–7.
2. Hernandez AF, Montero MN, Pla A, Villanueva E. Fatal moclobemide
overdose or death caused by serotonin syndrome? J Forensic Sci
1995;40:128–30.
3. Threlkeld DS, ed. Central Nervous System Drugs, Central Analgesics,
Tramadol HCl. In Facts and Comparisons Drug Information. St. Louis, MO: Facts and
Comparisons, May 1995, 246b–6f.
4. Threlkeld DS, ed. Central Nervous System Drugs, Central Analgesics,
Tramadol HCl. In Facts and Comparisons Drug Information. St. Louis, MO: Facts and
Comparisons, May 1995, 246b–6f.
Copyright © 2004 Healthnotes, Inc. All rights reserved.
www.healthnotes.com
Please read the disclaimer
about the limitations of the information provided here. Do NOT rely solely on the information
in this article.
Learn more about Healthnotes, the company.
Learn more about the authors of Using
Medicines with Vitamins and Herbs
The information presented in Healthnotes is for informational
purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro),
clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may
not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with
prescription or over-the-counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor,
practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or
before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires December 2005.