Tramadol Abuse Among Yeloyelo Drivers in the Tamale Metropolis

Abstract

Background Tramadol abuse has become a major public health concern in many countries and Ghana as well. This study was carried out among tricycle drivers (Yeloyelo drivers) in the Tamale metropolis. This study sought to discuss the factors that influence the use of tramadol among tricycle drivers in the Tamale metropolitan area in the Northern Ghana. Methods The study employed qualitative approach. Purposive and snowball sampling techniques were used to select six terminal stations and 30 participants were selected from the six tricycle terminals stations in the Tamale Metropolis. 60 participants were also selected for FGDs. The results were analyzed using the Nvivo 10 software. Results The results of the study found that majority of the participants were engaged in the use of tramadol, some participants were found using tramadol and other substances such as alcohol mixed energy drinks, tramadol mixed with alcohol and snuffing of moringa powder mixed with cocaine without prescription from a physician. The study revealed that most participants abuse tramadol by taking in unapproved dosages of 500, 250, 200 and 150 (mg) dosages respectively as mentioned by some participants in the interviews conducted. Conclusion The study revealed that the three most compelling reasons why tricycle drivers use tramadol are; to energize themselves and become physically active, to relieve pains and peer group pressure. The study equally found the following side effects supporting the use of tramadol. Nausea, road accidents, sleeping while driving, anxiety, aggressiveness and dizziness are possible effects of tramadol use as was mentioned by participants. In addition, respiratory failures, anxiety, depression, aggressiveness, seizures, inattentiveness and inability to focus are equally the side effects of tramadol use among the yeloyelo drivers in the Tamale Metropolis.