I think tramadol is the much weaker than codeine or hydro. It's only good for mild-moderate pain. After two car accidents and a really screwed up back, I've tried various painkillers and while tamadol might be the easiest to get from IOP's, it's not the best if you're in a lot of pain.

If you take tramadol on any sort of regular basis and start taking codeine or hydro, give your body a little break (at least 8-12 hours) to clear out some of the tramadol as it will counteract any opiates to a certain degree. (Talks about it in the PDR).

One more note. Tramadol is not a drug you want to get addicted to. Withdrawals are more severe and last longer than those associated with opiates.