Effects of tramadol and o‐desmethyltramadol on canine innate immune system function

ConclusionsTramadol and its metabolite M1 were sparing to PMN phagocytosis and oxidative burst in dogs in vitro. Tramadol did not alter leukocyte cytokine production, however, M1 blunted IL‐10 production at clinically achievable concentrations suggesting that M1 may promote a proinflammatory shift.
Clinical relevanceThese data suggest that tramadol has minimal effect on phagocytosis and oxidative burst, and may promote a proinflammatory shift. Therefore, tramadol may be an ideal opioid analgesic in dogs at high risk of infection. Further investigation in vivo is warranted.

Source: Veterinary Anaesthesia and Analgesia - July 1, 2014 Category: Veterinary Research Authors: Sandra M Axiak‐Bechtel, Kaoru Tsuruta, Juliana Amorim, Rebecca Donaldson, Giulia Lino, Allyson Honaker, Farrah Monibi, John Dodam, Amy DeClue Tags: Research Paper Source Type: research