Journal of clinical pharmacy and therapeutics
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Randomized Controlled Trial Multicenter Study Clinical Trial
Slowing the titration rate of tramadol HCl reduces the incidence of discontinuation due to nausea and/or vomiting: a double-blind randomized trial.
Ultram [tramadol hydrochloride (HCl)] is a centrally acting analgesic that is widely prescribed for the treatment of moderate to moderately severe chronic pain. Although tramadol is generally well tolerated, some patients discontinue use early in the course of treatment because of nausea and vomiting. ⋯ This study demonstrated that a slower titration rate of tramadol HCl improves tolerability in patients who previously discontinued therapy due to nausea and/or vomiting. This study also demonstrates that the rate of titration of tramadol HCl rather than the target dose is the major determinant of tolerability.