Tramadol and Alcohol

In large quantities, mixing tramadol and alcohol can dangerously decrease central nervous system functions, which can lead to an overdose, coma, or death. When the central nervous system is slowed by mixing tramadol and alcohol, organ damage can occur due to a lack of oxygen and blood flow to important organs such as the brain. This can also impact cognitive issues such as memory, learning, attention, concentration, and problem-solving. Long term use of both tramadol and alcohol together can lead to the development of chronic diseases such as cancer, cirrhosis of the liver, gastrointestinal issues, stroke, neurological damage, kidney problems, and numerous other chronic conditions. Mixing tramadol and alcohol can also lead to risky behavior that can result in accidents that can harm yourself and other people. Finally, using alcohol and tramadol together can lead to mental health disorders and substance use disorders. Depression, anxiety, and addiction are common issues that stem from the mixing of substances. According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, in 2016, 1.6 million people in the U.S. over the age of 12 reported abusing tramadol in the past year.1 In 2018, it was reported by the Drug Abuse Warning Network that over 50,000 emergency department visits were due to tramadol use, with another half of the visits relating to side effects of the drug.2