Ultracet

Generic name: Tramadol hydrochloride and acetaminophen

What is Ultracet?

Ultracet is used to treat moderate to moderately severe pain for a period of five days or less. It contains two pain-relieving agents—tramadol, known technically as an opioid analgesic, which is a narcotic pain reliever, and acetaminophen, a less potent pain reliever that increases the effects of tramadol.

What is the most important information I should know about Ultracet?

Take only the amount and number of doses prescribed. Exceeding the recommended dosage can lead to reduced breathing, liver damage, seizures, and death.

Ultracet poses a danger of mental and physical addiction. Never exceed the prescribed dosage. If you experience withdrawal symptoms, which can occur if you stop taking the drug abruptly, consult your doctor for a tapering regimen. Withdrawal symptoms include anxiety, chills, diarrhea, hallucinations, insomnia, nausea, pain, erection of hair, sweating, tremors, and upper respiratory symptoms.

Who should not take Ultracet?

Do not take Ultracet if you have had an allergic reaction to either of its active ingredients, or to any other narcotic pain reliever. Do not take Ultracet if you have been drinking, or have taken any other narcotic drug, sleep aid, tranquilizer, or antidepressant; your consciousness or breathing could be compromised. Avoid Ultracet if you've ever been dependent on other narcotic pain relievers.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Ultracet?

Mention all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Ultracet. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have a history of drug or alcohol addiction, depression, epilepsy or other seizure disorders, or head injury. Make sure to let your doctor know if you have a metabolic disorder; an infection of your brain or spinal cord, such as meningitis or encephalitis; kidney disease; liver disease; asthma or other breathing disorder; a stomach disorder; or mental illness or suicide attempt.

Tell your doctor if you are taking any antidepressants because Ultracet may increase your risk of getting a seizure

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Adults: The usual dose of Ultracet is two tablets every 4 to 6 hours as needed for pain relief, up to a maximum of 8 tablets per day for no more than 5 days.

If you have kidney problems, the doctor may reduce the dose to 2 tablets every 12 hours. Older adults may also receive a low dose.

Children: The safety and effectiveness of Ultracet have not been established in children under the age of 16 years.

How should I take Ultracet?

You should strictly follow your doctor's dosage recommendations, and stop taking the drug as soon as possible.

What should I avoid while taking Ultracet?

Do not take Ultracet if you will be driving a car or operating dangerous machinery. Ultracet may impair the mental and physical abilities needed for driving. Avoid alcohol.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Ultracet?

If Ultracet is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Ultracet with the following: acetaminophen-containing products; antidepressant drugs classified as MAO inhibitors, including phenelzine and tranylcypromine; antipsychotic drugs, such as chlorpromazine and haloperidol; carbamazepine; cyclobenzaprine; digoxin; narcotic pain relievers, such as aspirin/oxycodone and acetaminophen/hydrocodone; promethazine; quinidine; serotonin-boosting antidepressants, such as paroxetine and fluoxetine; sleep aids, such as triazolam and temazepam; tranquilizers, such as alprazolam and diazepam; tricyclic antidepressants, such as amitriptyline and imipramine; triptans such as sumatriptan, zolmitriptan, etc.; and warfarin.

What are the possible side effects of Ultracet?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: blurry vision, constipation, diarrhea, dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth, headache, nausea, sleepiness, sweating, vomiting

Can I receive Ultracet if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The effects of Ultracet during pregnancy are unknown. Tell your doctor immediately if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. Ultracet should be used in pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Seizures, death, and stillbirths have been reported with tramadol.

Ultracet appears in breast milk and is not recommended for nursing mothers.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Ultracet?

Take Ultracet only as needed. Never take 2 doses at once.

How should I store Ultracet?

Store at room temperature in a tight container.