Efficacy of Lofexidine in the Outpatient Management of Tramadol Withdrawal Syndrome

Abstract

Tramadol is recognized as an opioid with non-opiate properties. It has a low affinity for opioid receptors and prevents reabsorption of norepinephrine and serotonin at synapses. It also increases the level of Gamma Aminobutyric Acid (GABA) in the central nervous system [1, 2]. Tramadol is an analgesic for patients suffering from moderate to severe pain [1]. In addition, previous studies have shown that tramadol abuse and suicidal attempts have increased in Iran [3, 4].