Ultracet
Generic Name: Acetaminophen
What is Ultracet?
Ultracet is used for the short-term treatment (<5 days) of moderate to severe pain. It contains two pain-relieving agents--tramadol, an opioid pain reliever, and acetaminophen, a less potent pain reliever.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 may cause dependence. You should not use it if you have previously been addicted to an opioid.
Use this drug with extreme caution if you have liver disease, addiction problems, or a history of emotional problems including suicidal thoughts or behaviors.
Ultracet has been shown to cause seizures, especially in patients taking certain antidepressants (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and tricyclic antidepressants), some opioids, and MAO inhibitors. There is a greater risk of seizures if you have a history of seizures, have drug/alcohol withdrawal, or a nervous system infection.
Ultracet may cause a condition known as serotonin syndrome (a potentially life-threatening drug reaction that causes the body to have too much serotonin, a chemical produced by the nerve cells). If you feel any of the following signs and symptoms notify your doctor immediately: agitation, hallucinations, fast heart beat, high body temperature, unstable blood pressure, lack of coordination, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Ultracet may cause serious allergic reactions after the first dose such as a skin rash, hives, swelling of the face, eyes, lips, tongue, and difficulty breathing. If you experience any of these symptoms call your doctor immediately.
Do not take Ultracet with other products containing acetaminophen (such as Tylenol) because it may cause liver damage.
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.What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Ultracet?
Tell your doctor about 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 the following: drug or alcohol addiction; seizures; head injury; metabolic disorders; brain or spinal cord infections; stomach problems; kidney or liver disease; asthma or other breathing problems; emotional problems including depression or suicidal thoughts or behaviors. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.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 is 2 tablets every 4-6 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 need a lower dose.
How should I take Ultracet?
Take the medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor.What should I avoid while taking Ultracet?
Ultracet may impair judgment and motor skills. Do not take Ultracet if you will be driving a car, operating machinery, or doing any activity that requires full alertness. Do drink alcohol while taking Ultracet.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: other products containing acetaminophen; antidepressants (including MAO inhibitors such as phenelzine and tranylcypromine, antidepressants that boost serotonin such as paroxetine and fluoxetine, and tricyclic antidepressants such as amitriptyline and imipramine); antipsychotic drugs such as chlorpromazine and haloperidol; carbamazepine; cyclobenzaprine; digoxin; alcohol; narcotic pain relievers such as oxycodone and hydrocodone; promethazine; quinidine; sleep aids such as triazolam and temazepam; tranquilizers such as alprazolam and diazepam; triptans such as sumatriptan and zolmitriptan; erythromycin; rifampin; 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, decrease in appetite
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 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 two doses at once.How should I store Ultracet?
Store at room temperature in a tight container.
I'm Beth Isaac, PharmD. Welcome to PDR Health!
