BPOM to Take Firm Action Against Tramadol Abuse, Investigation Underway

Jakarta — The Indonesian Medicines and Food Regulatory Authority (BPOM) stated it is conducting an investigation into alleged free sales of tramadol at retail outlets, and will take firm action against the misuse of the drug.

“Tramadol falls under certain medicines according to BPOM Regulation Number 21,” said BPOM head Taruna Ikrar in Jakarta on Tuesday. “These are powerful medicines commonly used, such as painkillers and fatigue relievers.”

He explained that tramadol functions as an anti-inflammatory and analgesic, but is frequently abused. “We classify these as controlled medicines. These drugs can cause several effects — firstly, a ‘high’ when combined with certain other substances, and can produce effects similar to ecstasy, and so on,” said Taruna.

He noted that public reports regarding tramadol being sold freely in communities have become a priority, and are currently being investigated. “We expect to take enforcement action shortly,” he said.

A video circulating on social media showed several shops allegedly selling tramadol in the Kalisari and Pekayon areas of Pasar Rebo, East Jakarta, being pelted with firecrackers by residents. The video recorder, identified as Akbar, admitted on Monday (9 March) to participating in the incident, stating the action was taken because previous public reports to police had allegedly gone unaddressed.

Deputy Chair of Commission III of Indonesia’s House of Representatives Ahmad Sahroni called on police to follow up on community findings regarding tramadol sales outlets in East Jakarta. According to Sahroni, the spread of tramadol in communities poses serious risks to public health and economy.

“I urge the police to move faster in addressing reports regarding tramadol sales, given its potential to cause severe addiction for users. There should be no inaction — reports should be acted upon immediately,” Sahroni said in an official press statement released in Jakarta on Tuesday.