Tramadol which is referred to as “tramol” by the youth is a narcotic-like pain reliever. It is used to treat moderate to severe pain in adults. The strength ranges from 50mg to 100mg and must only be prescribed by a medical doctor. But unfortunately, the youth are able to purchase it over-the-counter and have abused its usage. Speaking to some of the addicts of the medicine, they take it to feel “HIGH”. They see themselves above anyone and there is nothing they can’t do in this world. However, they’ve been misusing this drug and are addicted and are now overdosing the medicine’s use to the extent of some taking between 200mg and 600mg daily.
The overdose of the drug has short and long term effects on those abusing it.
AGITATION
Agitation is the state of being moved by violence or with irregular action; commotion. After taking the drug, they feel they’re above anything and therefore opt to use force and violence to resolve any difference they have with anyone. Most of the time, this violence has caused serious injury and death to people.
HALLUCINATION
It is a sensory perception of something that doesn’t exist often arising from disorder of the nervous system. The over usage of this drug alters the nervous system of the users and therefore they are unable to reason and see reality. They set unrealistic target for themselves and hence disappointed with the end results.
LOSS OF COORDINATION
Loss of coordination is referred to as ATAXIA in medical parlance. Ataxia is a lack of muscle coordination which may affect speech, eye movement, the ability to swallow, walking, picking up objects and other voluntary movements.
FAST HEART RATE
One effect of the over usage of the drug is that it increases the rate at which one’s heart beat which may be detrimental to the health.
ANXIETY
This is a mental health disorder characterized by feelings of worry or fear that are strong enough to interfere with one’s daily activities. The feelings are sometimes excessive to the point that the individuals abandon their potentials and live miserably.
DEATH
Death is the ultimate side effect of tramol. Individuals abusing this drug can die as a result of other compounding effects.
We shouldn’t throw away the baby with the bathwater; therefore there should be a proper legislation to check the sale and use of this hitherto harmless drug. Also, other agencies entrusted with the responsibility of drug consumption such as the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) and Pharmacy Council should intensify supervision. In conclusion, there are more side effects of tramadol than the aforementioned and therefore people must take extra care in taking it to avoid running from one effect to the other.
by: Eunice Tawiah Aboagye
