Tramadol (zydol, Searle)

The account of tramadol (Zydol) in this month's issue is the first in a new series of articles reviewing new drugs and drugs which have recently become established in intensive and critical care nursing practice. It is intended through these articles to consider drugs from a nursing perspective and, in doing so, the key role of the nurse in evaluating the appropriateness, efficacy and safety of drug therapy is readily acknowledged. The format provides a brief description of dosage and available dosage forms together with pharmaceutical aspects including preparation, administration and storage. The actions and clinical uses of drugs are also discussed and summarised in a brief therapeutic comment. The Editor is anxious that 'Drug Therapy Review' serves a useful and practical function within the nursing process and the comments of our readers, including suggestions on topics for future review, will be gratefully received.