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Tramadol and SSRI — GPhC CRA MCQ

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ModerateCNS TherapeuticsTramadol and SSRIGPhC CRA

A patient taking sertraline 100 mg daily presents a new prescription for tramadol 50 mg four times daily for back pain. She has not used opioids before. What is the most important interaction to flag?

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Correct answer: A — Raised risk of serotonin syndrome and seizures

Tramadol has serotonergic activity and can lower seizure threshold. Combined use with SSRIs increases the risk of serotonin syndrome and seizures, so safer analgesia should be considered. The other options either delay appropriate care, use an unsuitable medicine, or miss the main safety issue.

Reference: BNF