Starting July 14, tramadol will only be sold with a medical prescription that includes the professional license of the treating doctor. The Federal Commission for the Protection against Sanitary Risks (Cofepris) approved this reclassification with a preventive approach.
“This measure was implemented with a preventive approach against the inappropriate consumption of this opioid medication, due to its potential for dependence,” the agency indicated.
What changes with the new regulation?
Pharmacies must seal prescriptions, note the date and quantity filled. Also record each operation immediately in the corresponding control books. The goal is to curb unsupervised use and prevent dependency.
Alternatives to Tramadol
Cofepris pointed out that for mild to moderate pain there are other options: ibuprofen, naproxen, diclofenac and paracetamol. For neuropathic pain, antidepressants such as duloxetine and amitriptyline, or anticonvulsants such as gabapentin and pregabalin, may be used.
The measure seeks to balance access to pain relief with the prevention of health risks. Tramadol is an opioid with potential for abuse, and its controlled sale is intended to reduce misuse.




