What is the brand name for Tramadol?
The brand name for Tramadol is Ultram.
PTCE Top 200 · #36
Tramadol
Ultram
Tramadol is the generic name for the brand-name drug Ultram. It is an opioid analgesic (atypical) used to treat moderate pain. On the PTCE Top 200 drug list, Tramadol ranks #36 and is one of the most frequently tested pain/inflammation medications — commonly quizzed on its brand–generic pair, drug class, and key side effects.
| Generic name | Tramadol |
|---|---|
| Brand name(s) | Ultram |
| Drug class | Opioid analgesic (atypical) |
| Class group | Pain/Inflammation |
| Common use | moderate pain |
| DEA schedule | C-IV |
| Availability | Prescription only (Rx) |
What is Tramadol used for?
Opioid analgesic for moderate to moderately severe pain when opioid therapy is appropriate.
What drug class is Tramadol?
Tramadol is an Opioid analgesic (atypical) in the Pain/Inflammation group. Knowing the class is the fastest way to predict its uses, side effects, and the brand↔generic pairs the PTCE tests.
Common side effects of Tramadol
- arrow_rightNausea
- arrow_rightDizziness
- arrow_rightConstipation
- arrow_rightSomnolence
- arrow_rightHeadache
Major interactions
- arrow_rightBenzodiazepines, alcohol, and other CNS depressants → sedation/respiratory depression
- arrow_rightSerotonergic drugs (SSRIs/SNRIs, MAOIs, triptans) → serotonin syndrome/seizure risk
- arrow_rightCYP2D6/3A4 inhibitors/inducers can alter levels and toxicity
- arrow_rightMAO inhibitors (contraindicated or avoid)
Is Tramadol a controlled substance?
Yes. Tramadol is a C-IV controlled substance under federal law.
warning Boxed warning
BOXED WARNING: Risks of addiction, abuse, and misuse; life‑threatening respiratory depression; accidental ingestion; neonatal opioid withdrawal; CYP interactions; and risks with benzodiazepines/other CNS depressants (product‑specific boxed warnings may vary).
How to remember Tramadol (PTCE mnemonic)
ULTRA-m is the 'TRICKY' opioid — TRAM-adol is C-IV μ-agonist + SNRI. Lowers seizure threshold; serotonin syndrome with SSRIs/MAOIs.
lightbulb
PTCE exam tip
Tramadol is a Schedule IV opioid that's also serotonergic — so it carries both controlled-substance rules AND serotonin-syndrome / seizure risk.
Tramadol FAQ
What is Tramadol used for?
Tramadol is used to treat moderate pain. Opioid analgesic for moderate to moderately severe pain when opioid therapy is appropriate.
What drug class is Tramadol?
Tramadol is an Opioid analgesic (atypical) (Pain/Inflammation group).
Is Tramadol a controlled substance?
Yes. Tramadol is a C-IV controlled substance under federal law.
Related drugs in the Pain/Inflammation group
Drill Tramadol the way the PTCE asks it
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Last reviewed June 25, 2026. Educational use only — not medical advice. Verify clinical specifics with your pharmacist or a current label source such as DailyMed. RxReflex is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).