Tramadol for dogs is used for the treatment of pain. The drug is also known by the brand name Ultram. Tramadol, which can be administered as a tablet, capsule, syrup, liquid, or injection, is prescribed by veterinarians to treat canine post-surgical pain, injuries, and chronic conditions like cancer and arthritis.
For information about how tramadol relieves pain, see Tramadol Canine Drug to Treat Pain. For information about tramadol dosage, see Tramadol Dosage for Dogs.
Dog owners should be aware of potential tramadol side effects and alert the veterinarian if their canine experiences any serious complications after taking the drug.
Tramadol for Dogs Side Effects, Mild to Moderate
Many of the tramadol side effects are common as well as mild in nature. Common side effects include panting, dizziness, constipation, nausea, slowed heart rate, and constricted pupils. Lethargy, trouble sleeping, blurry vision, and loss of appetite are also typical.
Allergic reactions may also occur in some dogs taking Ultram. Signs of allergic reaction to Ultram include hives, breathing problems, and swelling of the face, tongue, and throat.
Ultram for Canines Side Effects, Serious
Serious side effects of tramadol are less common in dogs but are life-threatening and need to be taken seriously. For this reason, owners should alert the veterinarian and take the dog for emergency care if the dog experiences any severe side effects.
Seizures, extreme difficulty breathing, and blistering skin rashes are serious side effects of Ultram use in canines. Other serious side effects include tremors, pinpoint pupils, hallucinations, and anxiety.
Potential Drug Interactions with Tramadol Med
Drug interactions with tramadol are a concern. Owners should discuss any medications their dog is taking with their veterinarian before beginning a pain treatment regimen for their canine with Ultram.
Severe drug interactions, which include seizures and nervous and respiratory system distress, may occur between tramadol and the following medications:
- Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI), such as anti-depressant Prozac
- Anti-anxiety drugs
- Narcotic pain meds
- Sedatives, such as Valium
Drug Tramadol for Dogs’ Pain
Originally developed for treating pain in humans, tramadol (Ultram) is gaining popularity as a drug to treat acute and chronic pain in dogs. Before choosing to give a canine tramadol for pain management, owners should speak with their veterinarian about potential side effects and drug interactions.
Sources:
Tramadol, 1800PetMeds.com. Retrieved May 13, 2010.
Tramadol Tablets (Generic), DrsFosterSmith.com. Retrieved May 13, 2010.
Treating Canine Arthritis Pain with Tramadol for Dogs, VetInfo.com. Retrieved May 13, 2010.
Aimee Larsen Stoddard - Aimee is a professional writer/editor. She has a BA in English and is currently completing an MS in Theology.
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