Tramadol is a prescription medication used to treat moderate to severe pain. It is a synthetic opioid analgesic, which means it works by altering the way the body perceives pain. Tramadol is commonly prescribed for headaches and other forms of pain. Headaches can be caused by a variety of reasons, such as stress, dehydration, allergies, or even a brain tumor. If the pain is mild, over-the-counter medications, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, may be enough to provide relief. However, if the pain is more severe, a doctor may prescribe Tramadol to help ease the discomfort.