Does Tramadol contain acetaminophen?

No, Tramadol does not contain acetaminophen. However, ULTRACET combines both tramadol and acetaminophen. More on acetaminophen and tramadol formulations as well as acetaminophen dangers here.

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No, Tramadol does not contain acetaminophen.

In fact, generic tramadol hydrochloride is one option doctors prescribe often for pain relief because it is both efficient and less addictive. We review tramadol combinations and risks of taking acetaminophen here.

Brand names that contain Tramadol

ER =  (extended release)
*    =  (contains acetaminophen)

  • Ryzolt
  • Ultracet *
  • Ultram
  • Ultram ER

BE AWARE: Ultracet (a brand name version of tramadol), combines both tramadol and acetaminophen.

Tramadol hydrochloride and acetaminophen together for pain

Tramadol/acetaminophen combination tablets are generally effective for the treatment of pain without any serious adverse effects. Tramadol efficacy depends on your general health, age, and dosing details. But if you want to avoid the combination, avoid ULTRACET.

Acetaminophen dangers

While acetaminophen is generally safe for short term use, there are some special considerations when considering this medicine for pain relief. First, you should not to exceed the FDA acetaminophen maximum total daily dose (4 grams/day). If you take acetaminophen over a long period of time or take it in higher than recommended doses, liver and kidney damage can result, as well as bleeding from the small and large intestines and the stomach. Large doses of acetaminophen are the main risk, but liver problems have been reported after small to moderate dosing of acetaminophen for long periods of time.

Additionally, doctors warn that you avoid alcohol while taking acetaminophen-containing medications. This is because alcohol and acetaminophen can lead to a life threatening complications called “alcohol acetaminophen syndrome” which cause acute liver failure. Although there is no official threshold for alcohol and acetaminophen, experts recommend that heavy drinkers shouldn’t take more than 2 grams of acetaminophen daily.

Tramadol use questions

Do you have any questions about tramadol use or effects? Please leave them here. We enjoy reading and responding to your personalized queries, and helping where we can.

Reference sources: Acetaminophen Family Fact Sheet
12 things you should know about pain relievers from Harvard Health
Go Ask Alice! Mixing alcohol and acetaminophen — How can I reduce my risk for side effects?
Tramadol and acetaminophen combination tablets in the treatment of fibromyalgia pain: a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study.
About the author
Lee Weber is a published author, medical writer, and woman in long-term recovery from addiction. Her latest book, The Definitive Guide to Addiction Interventions is set to reach university bookstores in early 2019.
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