The Pharmacy Council of Ghana has shut down an Over-the-Counter Medicines (OTCM) facility for dispensing tramadol to a drug addict.
A statement by the council said the facility located at Mamprobi Agege was shut down on Friday, July 21, 2023.
“The intervention was prompted by a tip-off from two vigilant police officers who witnessed the addict adding a substance, later identified as tramadol, to his drink,” the statement said.
Upon further questioning, the individual admitted to lacing his drink with tramadol and revealed that he had obtained the drug from that particular OTCM shop.
The officers immediately confronted the shop’s owner, who displayed a defiant and uncooperative attitude during the interrogation.
A formal report was lodged with the Pharmacy Council and swift enforcement measures were taken.
The statement added that, “The owner of the facility and her staff are set to face the disciplinary committee of Council, where they will be required to explain to the Council stocking and dispensing a prescription-only medicine without appropriate authorization”.
The council reminded the public of the potential dangers associated with the improper handling, distribution and use of prescription-only medicines such as tramadol.
Consuming tramadol in combination with other substances can lead to liver diseases, renal dysfunction, or respiratory dysfunction.
Additionally, when mixed with alcohol, tramadol can significantly lower brain activity, resulting in loss of consciousness, increased depression, brain damage and even suicidal tendencies.
Below is the full statement from the Pharmacy Council
