Warning over Dangers of Tramadol Misuse: From Addiction to Tremor Risks
MISUSE of tramadol, a pain relief medication, has come under intense scrutiny due to its serious health implications. Health experts are warning the public against consuming this drug without strict medical supervision, given the risk of dependency lurking behind the false sense of wellbeing it produces.
Prof. Dr. Ari Fahrial Syam, Professor and Consultant of Gastroenterology and Hepatology at FKUI-RSCM, explained that medically, tramadol is a drug used to relieve mild to moderate pain. In practice, doctors often combine it with paracetamol for treatment effectiveness. However, tramadol is classified as a controlled drug.
“Tramadol is classified as a controlled drug because it is frequently misused and can cause addiction or dependency. Once addicted, patients will continuously request the drug, and symptoms such as insomnia, restlessness, muscle pain, and tremors will develop,” said Prof Ari.
Why is tramadol frequently misused? Prof. Ari revealed that users often seek the instant effects of feeling more energetic, increased energy levels, and mood elevation and heightened confidence. Clinically, these sensations occur because of tramadol’s ability to significantly suppress pain or physical discomfort. Rather than being used for medical purposes, many people consume it to chase certain sensations. This is what serves as the gateway to addiction.
The most tangible risk from unsupervised use is addiction. When someone reaches the stage of dependency, they will continuously seek the drug compulsively. If consumption is stopped abruptly, the body will react negatively with symptoms ranging from restlessness to motor disturbances such as tremors.
Prof. Ari reiterated that the distribution of tramadol must not be done arbitrarily in the free market. “This is a controlled drug and must be obtained with a doctor’s prescription. It cannot be sold freely,” he stressed.
This issue has triggered strong reactions from relevant authorities and the public. The Indonesian Drug and Food Regulatory Agency (BPOM) stated it is investigating allegations of free-market sales of tramadol and is committed to taking firm action against all forms of misuse of the drug.
This oversight measure was strengthened after widespread public concern in the field. Recently, a viral video showed residents in East Jakarta throwing firecrackers at several shops suspected of recklessly selling tramadol without legal procedures. This phenomenon demonstrates that illegal circulation of controlled drugs has become a real threat that is beginning to be directly addressed by local communities.