AboutNigel Simmons Expertise I am happy to answer general questions on medicines and hospital care. If possible, please use approved / chemical names rather than brands which are not internationally recognised.
Like all health professionals I am bound by a duty of care which prevents me giving detailed information about medication or treatment of people other than the questioner.
I will endeavour to help wherever possible or point towards more appropriate advice. If however your question crosses too far into patient confidentiality, I hope you will understand why I cannot answer your question.
Consider.. would you want me to discuss your care with a friend or relative without your knowledge?
Experience Registered as a UK pharmacist in 1982 and have worked in a number of hospital and health management posts around the UK. Formerly Chief Pharmacist for a 440 bed general hospital in Cambridgeshire.
Past/Present clients Previously Sysop on CompuServe UK Professionals forum.
Question Hi i was given Tramadl/Apap (Ultraset) last week for reaccurring headache and told that i wouldnt have sideeffects on my stomach... I took one pill on two seperate occassions and both time about or even six hours after taking got very sick to my stomach also got even worse headache after the pill wore off. Is it possiable that this med can cause even worse headaches and a sick stomach so long after taking it.. Thanks a ton.
Jen
Answer Jeanne
Although the literature cites gastro-intestinal problems as rare, I think the problems you are experiencing is because the Tramadol (a synthetic opiate) is causing spasticity of the gut and potentially constipation. The headache is probably a reaction to the pain from the GI problems.
My suggestion would be to use plain Acetaminophen to it's maximum dose (1000mg in 24 hours) as that is often as effective as most combination analgesics. If this does not give sufficient relief, then you could add in a low dosage of a non-steroidal drug such as Ibuprofen.
If your pain persists, then it would be advisible to get a detailed review from a doctor or pain specialist. Other drugs may be appropriate in some cases, but equally physiotherapy or assessing posture and sleeping position may also help things improve.
