[The effect of tramadol, a new analgesic, on respiration and cardiovascular function (author's transl)]

1. The effect of 1-(m-methoxyphenyl)-2-(dimethylaminomethyl)-cyclohexan-1-ol (tramadol; Tramal), a new i.v. administered analgesic, on respiration and cardiovascular function was investigated in 15 patients in a clinic of general surgery. 2. Blood gas analysis revealed that tramadol, unlike morphine-like analgesics, does not depress respiration. 3. The drug did not affect blood pressure, and the observed slight increase in heart rate was transient and statistically not significant.