The abuse of Tramadol, popularly called Tramol among the youth in Ghana has become a headache for most parents and the government.
It is a drug originally prepared to help relieve moderate to moderately severe pain. Tramadol is similar to opioid (narcotic) analgesics. It works in the brain to change how your body feels and responds to pain.
However, the drug has unfortunately become a household term on the lips of many young individuals across the country.
The youth abuse the medication for sexual gratification and energy purposes. It is added to some drinks or beverages to give a heightened ‘feeling high’ sensation and pleasure. Meanwhile, an overdose or abuse of this drug can lead to death.
Manny industrial players have added their voice on what needs to be done to prevent the abuse of this drug among the youths.
One of such personalities is actor cum preacher, Majid Michel.
The revered actor believes that the in-take of the drug is as a result of low self-esteem from the youth. According to him, young people only take the illicit drugs to boost their confidence and act in a manner they would never have considered if they were in their right senses.
Majid was speaking in an interview with Ghanaweb.com in the company of his colleague actor, Prince David Osei.
“I think we have to tackle it from the root. I think most of the youth have lost their sense of identity that is who they are taking these drugs. So they believe if they go to take a drug, it gave them the confidence to do certain things they were not able to do when they are normal and it’s an addiction.” He said.
“It is also an appetite so when they become normal {or] sober, they realize the appetite come back,” he noted.
On his part, fellow colleague Prince David Osei was of the view that although the drug is used by the youth to enhance their potential, “they don’t need it.”
Meanwhile, Mental Health Authority and other stakeholders have admonished Parliament to urgently amend the Narcotic Drug Law to make Tramadol an illicit drug.
Several young people have died from the overdose of Tramadol.
Meanwhile, ace broadcaster, Nana Aba Anamoah interviews some youths at old Fadama who are addicted to the drug days ago.
They noted that getting access to the drugs is very easy for them. Hence, they’re pleading with the government to put restrictions on the sale of the drug. This they believe will help them overcome their addiction.
