What is Tramadol? A drug was found on Bobby Portis Jr., after 25 games suspension by NBA
The Milwaukee Bucks player was suspended by the NBA for 25 games for violating its anti-drug policy. Portis maintains the test was a result of an honest mistake, confusing Tramadol with an NBA-approved medication.
The NBA announced on Thursday that Milwaukee Bucks forward Bobby Portis Jr. has been suspended for 25 games after testing positive for Tramadol, an opioid painkiller. The suspension begins tonight as the Bucks take on the Los Angeles Clippers and will last until April 6.
The league confirmed that Portis tested positive for Tramadol, a pain medication that is prohibited by the NBA and is also on the World Anti-Doping Agency's list of banned substances. Here’s what you should know about Tramadol following Portis' suspension.
What is Tramadol, a drug used by the Bucks player?
Tramadol is an opioid painkiller used to treat moderate to moderately severe pain in adults, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
The FDA notes that Tramadol is sold under brand names such as Ultram, Ultram ER, and Conzip, along with its generic forms. It may also be combined with acetaminophen, commonly found in Tylenol, under the brand name Ultracet.
Tramadol is classified as a Schedule IV controlled substance by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), which indicates it has a low potential for abuse or dependence. Other medications in the same category include Ambien, Xanax, and Valium.
Portis' agent, Mark Bartelstein, issued a statement explaining that the player "unintentionally" took Tramadol, mistakenly believing it to be Toradol, a pain medication that is approved by both the NBA and its players' union. The statement emphasized that Portis is in full support of the league’s anti-drug policy and is "absolutely not a drug abuser."
“I was dealing with an elbow injury and using an NBA-approved medication for pain and inflammation,” Portis said in his statement. “During that time, I made an honest mistake and took a pain-reducing anti-inflammatory pill that is not approved. I feel horrible and understand that I am responsible for what I put into my body.”
What is Toradol?
Toradol is the brand name for Ketorolac, which is used to alleviate moderately severe pain, according to the Mayo Clinic. It is categorized as a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID).
In a statement released by the Bucks, Portis said: “I was dealing with an elbow injury and using an NBA-approved medication for pain and inflammation. During that time, I made an honest mistake and took a pain-reducing anti-inflammatory pill that is not approved. I feel horrible and recognize that I’m responsible for what I put in my body."
"From the bottom of my heart, I want to apologize to the Bucks organization, my teammates, coaches, family, and fans. I give everything I have on the court and will terribly miss playing games for the Bucks during this time. I will continue to work hard and be ready for our long playoff run. Thank you for your support. I appreciate it more than you know.”
The suspension was not eligible to be appealed, and is without pay.