Tramadol is a prescription medication used to treat moderate to severe pain. It is a narcotic analgesic, meaning that it works by binding to opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord to reduce pain signals. Tramadol is also a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI), which means that it helps to increase levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain. This can help to improve mood and energy levels, and can also help to reduce pain.
Tramadol is available in both oral and extended-release forms. The oral form is typically taken every 4 to 6 hours, as needed for pain. The extended-release form is taken once daily.