Expert: Nigel Simmons - 7/4/2007

Question
I have been taking Effexor( 75 mg) for nearly a year now.  Recently, I also began taking Ultram once a day for about the last two weeks for a back injury.  I have not had a period in nearly 8 weeks and have taken several(7) pregnancy tests which all come back negative. I am working on my doctorate in clinical psychology, which can be extremely stressful, so I thought perhaps that could be the issue, but my cycle is like clock work...always there. Could the Ultram be to blame?  What do you think is the problem?  Thank you for any advice you can lend.

Answer
Lauren

I am not aware of any reports of Tramadol affecting hormones and period cycles, so it is unlikely that that is a factor.

You are quite probably right to believe that the stress of your studies is the most likely factor, and as such things should return to normal as things settle or you find the opportunity to relax. Maybe giving yourself a couple of days break may be helpful?

If you are particularly concerned, develop other symptoms or still show no signs of a period in the next few weeks, then you should consult your doctor. They will be able to arrange an ultrasound examination and blood tests to check hormone levels. After pregnancy has been fully excluded, then it would be possible to prescribe some hormone therapy that will bring on a period.

I hope this helps.