Tramadol Use & Nausea | How to Avoid This Common Effect

Tramadol use can cause a number of different side effects, including nausea.[1] 

To reduce or minimize this side effect, follow prescription instructions directly. Do not take higher doses than prescribed or take tramadol more frequently than prescribed.

If nausea persists or becomes disruptive to the ability to function, call the prescribing physician to talk about alternative solutions or a change to the dosing. 

Is Nausea a Serious Side Effect of Tramadol?

Nausea is usually an unpleasant but harmless side effect that can be associated with tramadol use. Though it is bothersome, it normally doesn’t involve major health ramifications. In fact, many individuals will experience mild nausea when starting this medication, but most will find that the issue tapers off on its own as the body adjusts. 

Nausea is a common side effect with all opioids. About 40% of people taking opioids experience nausea. In addition, 15% to 25% may vomit after taking opioids.[2]

If nausea comes with other side effects, it may require medical attention. Serious reactions require medical attention, such as high blood pressure, respiratory issues, or allergic reactions that occur with or without nausea.[1] 

Similarly, if nausea leads to vomiting, and vomiting continues for more than 24 hours, seek medical care. 

Why Does Tramadol Make You Nauseous? 

Tramadol may induce nausea due to interactions with neurotransmitters and receptors found within the brain and gastrointestinal tract. 

Although tramadol acts as an opioid analgesic by binding with mu opioid receptors in order to relieve pain, other neurotransmitter systems like serotonin and norepinephrine could potentially also be altered. This can lead to unexpected interactions that produce nausea as a side effect.[3]

• Serotonin receptors: Tramadol acts opioid receptors but also inhibits serotonin reuptake, increasing serotonin levels in the brain and potentially stimulating its chemoreceptor trigger zone (CTZ), leading to nausea and vomiting symptoms.[2]
  
• GI tract: Tramadol can have a detrimental effect on the GI tract by delaying digestion of food and fluid through the stomach and intestines, potentially leading to nausea and discomfort.[3]
  
• Individual sensitivity: Differences in metabolism and sensitivity could contribute to variations in nausea episodes among tramadol users.

How Long Does Nausea From Tramadol Last? 

In most cases, when tramadol use triggers symptoms of nausea, the issue only lasts for a few days. For most people, it won’t lead to vomiting. 

However, in some cases, the problem can persist for weeks or longer, or it can cause vomiting. If the problem continues, call your doctor.

Tips to Avoid Nausea From Tramadol Use 

Try these steps to avoid nausea related to tramadol use:[1,4]

• Experiment with food. The medication can be taken with or without food, and research shows that taking it with food does not consistently reduce nausea.[9] In some cases, taking it with food worsens nausea, and in others, it lessens it. Experiment with what works for you.

• Stay hydrated. Sipping water throughout the day can help you to feel better and reduce nausea episodes.

• Stick to the dose your doctor prescribed. Taking more tramadol than prescribed can increase the likelihood of experiencing nausea.

• Avoid alcohol. Mixing alcohol with opioids like tramadol can make nausea worse and increase the risk of other problems as well.

• Rest. A well-rested body can handle adjustments to a new medication more easily. If you are exhausted, all symptoms are likely to be heightened.

• Monitor your diet. Some foods might worsen nausea when taking tramadol, especially foods that are rich, heavy, or spicy.

• Try ginger. Sip ginger tea or suck on ginger candies to settle a queasy stomach.[5]

When to Contact a Doctor About Tramadol Side Effects 

Again, many people experience side effects when they first start taking tramadol or their dose is increased. In most cases, side effects pass within the first week, but if they do not, contact your doctor. 

Seek immediate medical attention if any of the following occur:[6] 

• Trouble breathing
• Allergic reactions, such as itching, swelling (especially of your face, tongue or throat) or severe rashes
• High blood pressure that includes severe headaches, blurred vision, chest pain or feeling confused
• Seizures or convulsions
• Drowsiness and confusion
• Unusual mood changes
• Severe nausea, vomiting or diarrhea
• Serotonin syndrome that includes agitation, rapid heartbeat, fever, muscle stiffness or coordination difficulties
• Overdose signs that may include trouble breathing, fainting, weakness or unconsciousness

Getting Started With Bicycle Health

While tramadol can effectively manage moderate to severe discomfort when taken as directed, it can lead to an opioid use disorder when it is misused or taken in combination with other substances.[1]

At Bicycle Health, we offer a comprehensive treatment program that includes access to life-saving medication designed specifically to treat dependence on opioids like tramadol. Through our Medication for Addiction Treatment (MAT) program, you’ll have access to Suboxone as well as therapy. 

Suboxone is a combination drug that offers multiple benefits, including these:

• Decreased withdrawal symptoms
• Less intense opioid cravings

With physical withdrawal symptoms and cravings controlled, people in recovery have the ability to turn their full attention to the work done in therapy. MAT has repeatedly been shown to reduce relapse rates and promote long-term recovery from OUD.[10]

We provide each patient with a unique treatment plan based on their opioid misuse history, past attempts at treatment and current goals for recovery. In most cases, this involves a number of therapy sessions each week. We offer our services via a telehealth platform, making treatment accessible to everyone, no matter where they live.

To learn more about Bicycle Health’s recovery options, contact us today.