'Tramadol Non-Medical Use in Four European Countries: A Comparative Analysis' examines the non-medical use, misuse, and abuse of tramadol compared to codeine, morphine, and oxycodone across Germany, Italy, Spain, and the UK. Using data from surveys, treatment centers, and poison control reports, it finds that tramadol misuse and abuse rates are consistently lower than those of other opioids in all countries studied. Codeine is the most commonly misused opioid, while tramadol’s unique pharmacological profile, including its weak mu-receptor agonism and dual action mechanism, likely contributes to its reduced abuse potential and lower injection rates.
- Journal Name:
- Drug and Alcohol Dependence
- Publication Date:
- 20 October 2020
- PMID:
- 33153831
The study also highlights regional differences in opioid misuse patterns, with factors such as drug availability and national policies playing key roles. Despite its relatively lower misuse rates, tramadol remains widely used for pain management, making it an important alternative to conventional opioids. However, the report stresses the importance of ongoing monitoring and harmonized data collection to better understand opioid misuse trends and inform future policies. It concludes that tramadol may have a safer profile for treating pain but emphasizes the need for careful risk management and further research into its non-medical use.
Tramadol non-medical use in Four European countries: A comparative analysis
Tramadol misuse and abuse are low compared to other opioids in four European countries.