How Tramadol Abuse Is Silently Creeping Into Homes With Its Destructive Effects In Nigeria
Tramadol Abuse Tramadol came to Nigeria in the 90’s. It was an over the counter (O.T.C) drug. It is in the same class with opioid painkillers. The reason why it was grouped with them is that they have a similar mechanism of action (M.O.A). When all other opioids have similar chemical structures and same MOA, Tramadol has a different chemical structure. This was the reason drug regulatory bodies place it as an over the counter (O.T.C) drug as it was believed to be relatively safer than the other opioids. Tramadol just like opioids is prescribed for mild to severe pains. It is available in the form of a capsule of various strengths from 50 mg, 100 mg, and 200 mg in a sachet of 10. The price is usually from 100 to 300 naira when it is OTC, which depends on location and brand. Presently, it is well above a thousand naira. Some years down the lane, it is becoming the most abused drug in Nigeria. It is more abused in tertiary institutions for some funny reasons than any other area. There...
