Introduction
Pain problems are common health condition among American people nowadays. Pain conditions mostly affects those people who have weak immune system or some other health issues. Therefore, millions of people around the world are suffering with pain -related issues.These conditions not only impact their regular life, but also affect relationships, and overall well-being.
To treat pain conditions there are several narcotic drugs available in the market. Some pain drugs are effective such as tramadol and diclofenac. Both medicines are used to treat aches and pains along with the pain of musculoskeletal and joint pain in the body
In this blog, we will know more about these two drugs like their similarities and differences.
What are Tramadol and Diclofenac Medications?
Tramadol
Tramadol pills is an opioid analgesic medicine, which is prescribed by the doctors to those who have been suffering with long-term and short term pain conditions. Several pain issues are occurring in patients due to various other reasons such as injuries, surgeries, unhealthy lifestyles, poor diet and overburden.
However, pain conditions are common to occur among people that can be treated with the help of tramadol like medicines. The medicine mostly comes in the form of tablets with different imprints. It is a strong opioid-based pain reliever and The Food and Drug Administration approval to consume the medicine.
The tablet works as a generic drug that is used in several branded medicines as well. For example, ConZip, Qdolo, Ultram, and Ultram ER. The medicine is classified under the Schedule IV controlled substance act in the U.S.
Diclofenac
Diclofenac is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, and it is used to treat various inflammatory conditions and pain issues. It is a generic medicine that is sold under different brand-names in many countries. For instance, Cambia, Zipsor, Zorvolex, Cataflam, Voltaren, Voltaren-XR, Dyloject, etc.
All of these medications are approved by the FDA for treating chronic pain and inflammatory conditions in patients. This component dose is administered to those patients who are experiencing mild to severe pain.
Comparison between Tramadol and Diclofenac
As we know there are different aspects in both medications based on some parameters, the difference between these two medicines can vary. Here are some important differences between tramadol and diclofenac.
Functions
Function of Tramadol
Tramadol drugs act by binding to opioid receptors in the (central nervous system) which is mainly in the brain and spinal cord and also reduces the feelings of pain by interrupting the way nerves signal pain between the brain and the body.
Function of Diclofenac
Diclofenac medicine works by reducing inflammation,swelling,stiffness, joint pain and blocking pain-causing prostaglandins and helps to relieve symptoms of arthritis (eg, osteoarthritis of rheumatoid arthritis).This medicine does not cure arthritis and will only help you as long as you continue to take it.
Uses
Uses of Tramadol:
Tramadol tablets are used in the management of various pain conditions. For instance Acute pain,Chronic pain,Cancer pain,Neuropathic pain etc.Tramadol is a strong opioid pain relieving medication that may be used to treat moderate to severe general and nerve-related pain.Tramadol may be habit-forming and misuse can cause addiction, overdose, or death. Its use may be limited by side effects such as nausea, constipation, and sedation. Pain-relieving effects or side effects may be altered in some people due to genetic variation at CYP 2D6 or drug interactions.
Uses of Diclofenac:
While, diclofenac drug is used in treating pain and other health problems, such as Osteoarthritis ,Rheumatoid Arthritis,Ankylosing Spondylitis,Tendinitis, Bursitis,Menstrual Cramps,Migraines Keep using this medicine for the full time of treatment. However, do not use this medicine more often or for a longer time than your doctor ordered. This medicine is not for long-term use.
Dosage Strengths of Tramadol and Diclofenac
1) Tramadol is available in the form of an oral tablet, injections, capsule, suspension, IR tablet, IR capsule, ER capsule 24 hours and ER tablet. It has various dosage strengths that are given below:
- Tramadol 50 mg
- Tramadol 75 mg
- Tramadol 100 mg
- Tramadol 150 mg
- Tramadol 200 mg
- Tramadol 300 mg
- And more.
2) Diclofenac comes in different forms such as oral tablets, capsules, topical gel or creams, eye drops and injections for treating chronic pains.
- Diclofenac 25 mg
- Diclofenac 50 mg
- Diclofenac 75 mg
- Diclofenac 100 mg
Similarities between Tramadol and Diclofenac
There are many similarities between these two medicines, which include:
- Tramadol and diclofenac are used to manage pain.
- Both medications always require a prescription from a qualified doctor.
- These medicines are taken orally, either as tablets or capsules.
- Both medications can interact with other prescription or over-the-counter medications.
- Tramadol and Diclofenac have generic versions available, which can be more affordable.
- These two medicines are available in combination products.
Side Effects of Tramadol and Diclofenac
If anyone experiences adverse reactions after taking these medicines, must inform their persons about these health problems. Some mild to serious side effects of both these medicines are mentioned below:
- Headache
- Constipation
- Stomach pain
- Drowsiness
- Itching
- Indigestion
- Dry mouth
- Difficulty breathing
- Chest pain
- Tiredness
- Dizziness
- Swelling in the face or throat
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Severe muscle stiffness
- Rash
- Fever
- Sweating
- Stuffy nose
- Increased blood pressure
- Diarrhea
- Burning eyes
- Red or purple rash in the skin
- Loss of consciousness
- Changes in heartbeat
- Difficulty concentrating
Precautions
- Do not take these drugs if one drinks alcohol or CNS depressants as these can cause severe side effects or even death.
- If you are having tramadol and diclofenac pills, then you need to avoid heat tasks like driving, weight lifting, etc.
- If you have other medical issues or any medical history , like allergies, kidney, or liver disease, heart-related issues, stomach ulcers, etc., then must inform your consultant doctor before consuming either one of the drugs.
- Do not take these medicines with other interacting pills, like antidepressants, etc.
- If anyone takes an overdose of these medicines or combines these pills with other medications, then this situation can lead you to overdose or severe adverse effects conditions and you may suffer further health complications.
- Pregnant women must avoid these two drugs as doctors also suggest them not to take any narcotic pill because it can harm the unborn baby and also create an unhealthy impact on the new mother.