New, non-NSAID alternative

Nurse Practitioner, Feb 2002

PAIN RELIEF OPTION

The FDA approved Ultracet tablets (37.5 mg tramadol HCl and 325 mg acetaminophen), a new centrally acting pain drug for short-term (5 days or less) management of acute pain.

Because Ultracet is not a nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID), it is not associated with gastrointestinal bleeding and ulcers. Additionally, Ultracet does not compromise the efficacy of some antihypertensive agents and can be used in sulfa-sensitive patients.

In clinical trials, constipation, somnolence, and increased sweating were the most frequent adverse effects associated with Ultracet use.

Patients should not concomitantly use Ultracet with alcohol, nor is Ultracet recommended in patients with liver disease. Additionally, Ultracet is not recommended in patients with a tendency to abuse drugs or alcohol, a history of drug or alcohol dependence, or a history of chronic opioid use. Patients with a history of anaphylactoid reactions to codeine and other opioids should not receive Ultracet.