By Benjamin Nii Nai Anyetei
The Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) has closed down eight chemist shops across the country for selling tramadol above the legally permitted levels.
The affected outlets included six drug stores and two pharmacies, according to the Deputy Director-General of NACOC, Mr. Alexander Twum-Barimah.
“As I sit here, if I’m not mistaken, we’ve closed not less than six drug stores and two pharmacies or whatever mixed together. We will continue to close more,” Mr. Twum-Barimah disclosed in an interview on Woezor TV on Sunday, September 28.
He explained that while tramadol is not banned in Ghana, the law permits only 50 mg and 100 mg doses, and even then only when prescribed by a medical officer. However, some of the affected shops were found selling 150 mg and 250 mg doses, which are strictly prohibited.
“By law, you can use 50 mg or 100 mg maximum, and that should be on prescription by a doctor. How can anyone sell 250 mg tramadol for a person to take?” he queried.
Mr. Twum-Barimah noted that tramadol is typically prescribed for pain management—such as after dental procedures or accidents—and warned that its misuse poses grave health risks.
The Deputy Director-General also expressed concern about the increasing rate of drug use among the youth. He cited a recent incident where a 16-year-old boy was found with two rolls of marijuana, adding that the abuse of drugs is no longer confined to secondary schools but has spread to basic schools as well.
NACOC says it will intensify surveillance and clampdowns on pharmacies and drugstores engaged in illegal sales, while working with the Food and Drugs Authority and law enforcement agencies to curb the menace.
