Skywalker 1988, Please be very careful about long term use of tramadol. It works much like opiates in suppressing pain. Therefore you can become addicted.The dctors don't monitor use closely enough. It does control pain. It is prescribed for short term use but my rheumatologist prescribed for long term . Unfortunately after using for two years, I found while on vacation when I was with out my 200mg a day supply that I was suddenly thrown into some very severe withdrawal symptoms. Abdominal cramping, diarrhea and violent sneezing. Fortunately my son had a few pills left post surgery to bridge me until I got home. Man it was a nightmare and the episode sent me into a fibro myalgia flare that lasted weeks. I am working with my Dr. on a slow taper. I won't lie I liked the drug's effect. I know it is hard on the kidneys and probably the liver as well. I am a retired nurse. I know what drug dependency does to people with chronic pain. This was a true wake-up call I thought I was careful.