I get a lot of inquiries where people want to learn the difference between Tramadol and Tylenol. They are both pain relievers, but one in a synthetic opioid and another is an non-opioid analgesic. Here, we shall compare the two- Tramadol Vs. Tylenol.
Basically Tramadol is an opioid-like pain reliever that doctors prescribe for moderate to severe pains. On the other hand, Tylenol (Acetaminophen) is used for low to moderate pains.
Tramadol Vs. Tylenol: How They Work in the Body
Tramadol, just like any opioids, is absorbed by the opioid receptors in our brain that change the pain signal transmitted by the nervous system. It alters the pain signal and tell the brain that it doesn’t hurt. That’s why an opioid can withstand severe pains. The added benefit is that Tramadol allows the pain chemical, prostaglandin, to flow. It helps the brain identify and repair damage.
Tylenol, like an NSAID, is a non-opioid. The way non-opioids work is completely different. They block or reduce the production of prostaglandin. You may say that Tylenol increases the pain threshold of the brain. While it is good for low acute pain, it doesn’t help if the pain is severe. The explanation is coming later.
Difference in Usage
It is important to understand that pain is necessary. Whenever there is a cut or damage to any pert of the body, pain is what signals the brain that there is something wrong. Our brain doesn’t have eyes to look around inside so it depends on various chemical signals.
The pain chemical or hormone is called prostaglandin. When a damage occurs, prostaglandin rushes to that are and tries to constrict the blood vessels surrounding it. As a result, the pain area swells and minimizes the blood flow.
The release and presence of prostaglandin is then detected by the nervous system and it informs the brain of the damage. This is when we feel the pain.
Non-opioids, like Tylenol, reduce pain by increasing the pain threshold. That means that until a certain level, the body won’t release any prostaglandin. That stops low to moderate pains. You may use Tylenol for headaches, toothaches, low migraines, and simple cuts and muscle pains.
Opioids, like Tramadol, reduce pain by interrupting the nerve signals. They don’t stop the flow of prostaglandin. The result is that the brain still gets to go and repair the damages while not feeling any pain. You may use Tramadol for moderate to severe pains such as osteoarthritis, surgical pains, chronic back pains, and severe injuries.
Tramadol and Tylenol can be used in combination for patients recovering from a major surgery or serious injury.
Tramadol Vs. Tylenol: Addiction Issues
Tylenol is not an opioid. Therefore, it it not addictive at all. You can buy it at a regular pharmacy without a prescription.
On the other hand, Tramadol acts like and opioid so there is a possibility of addiction. However, the possibility is really low as it is not a real opioid. Medications like Oxycodone and Hydrocodone are the addictive ones. Yet, Tramadol is still a prescription only drug in the USA.
Nevertheless, you can buy Tramadol Online without a prescription.
Overdose Issues
You are not in any danger from Tylenol overdose. There are some problems if Tylenol is taken in a very large quantity like 1600mg. It causes liver and kidney problems. Conversely, Tramadol has the possibility of an overdose. Yet, that is also very little and if taken in quantities line 900-1000mg.
If you are taking Tramadol, your doctor will advise not to take more than 400mg a day.
Side Effects
Tylenol has very little to no side effects. That’s why it is an OTC medication. Still, you may experience very mild side effects like constipation, blur vision, and lightheadedness.
Tramadol, on the other hand, can have stringer side effects. It is after all an opioid-like. They may include nausea, vomiting, extreme laziness or sleepiness, some high, and drowsiness.
These side effects go away in a few day and the body adjusts to the medication. It is advisable to sleep it off. Do not struggle to stay awake under the influence. Rest is when the brain really gets to heal the wound.
The Takeaways
Both Tylenol and Tramadol are essential pain relievers. They both work differently but achieves the same goal. While Tramadol is for a bit more serious types of pain, Tylenol can handle the common ones. And in combination, they work perfectly. You can checkout our article ‘How to Order Tramadol Online: A Step-by-Step Guide‘ to find out more.
This concludes our Tramadol Vs. Tylenol article.