Determination of risks and benefits of intrathecal tramadol hydrochloride in rabbits

The risks and benefits of intrathecal tramadol hydrochloride application in rabbits has been studied. In this study 35 male, Albino type New Zelland rabbits were used. The rabbits were divided into 5 groups. A, B, C and D groups were administered intrathecally single dose 1, 2, 4 and 8 mg/kg tramadol hydrochloride respectively and also single dose of saline was given intrathecally to the control group. Pain treshold, whether the seizures improved or not, respiratory depression, motor disfunction and sedation grade were evaluated at the intervals of 5, 15, 30, 60 and 120th min. Additionally neurotoxicity was searched histopathologically. It has been detected that tramadol has moderate analgesic potential which starts rapidly, lasts for a short time and depends on the dose. Motor disfunction and seizures were not observed. Light sedation and respiratory depression were observed at high doses. Neurotoxicity was found in all groups except the control group. Intrathecal tramadol hydrochloride has moderate analgesics effects which lasts for a short time and low incidence of side effects. It is assumed that it has toxic effect on the spinal cord.