I have SLE and have been on tramadol for 12 years. I also notice that it gives me an increase in energy and productivity. I told my rheumatologist this years ago and he said, “That’s weird.” As a person with a fatigue rendering illness, this “weird” side effect has helped me push through after school activities with three kids when my energy felt nonexistent. I’m not sure if it is because my pain takes my energy or the serotonin boost that tramadol gives. Someone with a better scientific mind should definitely do some research!