- Tramadol is a centrally acting analgesic with a dual mechanism of action: weak $\mu$-opioid receptor agonist and inhibition of serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake.
- Structurally, it is considered a hybrid of methadone and meperidine.
- Methadone is a synthetic opioid with a phenylpropylamine backbone, while meperidine contains a piperidine ring structure.
- Tramadol contains a methadone-like side chain with a meperidine-like structure in its basic amine and ether functionality.
- This hybrid structure contributes to its analgesic efficacy and unique pharmacological profile.