Viral Pharmacy Attacked with Firecrackers Over Illegal Tramadol Sales: The Serious Dangers of This Pain Reliever
The misuse of pain relief medication tramadol poses serious health threats, ranging from extreme anxiety to tremors. Health experts emphasise that the public should not consume this prescription drug without strict medical supervision to avoid the risk of addiction.
Professor Dr. Ari Fahrial Syam, Chief Professor and Gastroenterology Hepatology Consultant at FKUI-RSCM, explained that tramadol is used in medical practice to relieve mild to moderate pain. However, its high potential to trigger addiction has classified it as a prescription medication.
“Tramadol is classified as a prescription drug because it is frequently misused and can cause addiction or dependence. Once addicted, patients will repeatedly request the drug, leading to insomnia, anxiety, muscle pain, and tremors,” said Ari, as reported by Antara on Wednesday, 11 March.
Tramadol misuse often occurs because of the instant effects users experience, such as feeling more refreshed, energised, with improved mood and increased confidence. According to Prof. Ari, these sensations occur because of tramadol’s ability to suppress pain or discomfort in the body. This is frequently misinterpreted by non-medical users as a way to achieve certain “sensations.”
The risk of addiction increases dramatically if use is not controlled by a doctor. Once addiction sets in, patients tend to experience withdrawal symptoms when consumption is stopped.
“This (tramadol) is a prescription drug and must be obtained with a doctor’s prescription. It cannot be sold without a prescription,” stated Prof. Ari firmly.
The issue of illegal tramadol distribution has become a serious government concern. The Food and Drug Supervisory Agency (BPOM) on Tuesday, 10 March, stated that it is investigating allegations of illegal sales of the drug and promised strict enforcement against any violations.
The problem has sparked social unrest in the community. Recently, a viral video showed residents in East Jakarta attacking several pharmacies with firecrackers because they allegedly sold tramadol illegally in their neighbourhood.
Deputy Chair of Commission III of the House of Representatives, Ahmad Sahroni, urged the Health Ministry to add tramadol to the psychotropic drug classification list. Metro Bekasi Police raided a rented house where thousands of tramadol tablets were stored and arrested one suspect. The Indonesian Public Health Association (IAKMI) board member, Dr Iqbal Mochtar, believes stricter supervision of prescription drug consumption that could be misused is necessary.
A person’s response to mental pressure is crucial in determining whether they will fall into addiction or not. Those with trauma need an outlet that brings them intense joy, making them more vulnerable to addiction.