Aruna Turay, AYV News, August 26, 2025
Medical professionals in Sierra Leone have warned that drugs like Tramadol and Propafenone Hydrochloride, commonly known as 225, are not drugs that are to be used for sexual power.
According to them, Tramadol is used to relieve moderate to moderately severe pain, including pain after surgery.
A brown and white, capsule-shaped tablet used to treat serious irregular heart rhythms. The pill with imprint 225 (Brown & White, Capsule/Oblong, 19mm) has been identified as Propafenone Hydrochloride Extended-Release 225mg. It isused for Atrial Fibrillation, Ventricular Tachycardia, Atrial Flutter, and Wolff-Parkinson-White Syndrome.
Addiction is a growing concern in Sierra Leone, particularly among young men who misuse it to enhance their sexual performance. This trend is driven by societal expectations and misconceptions about masculinity, where men feel pressured to prove their prowess.
The painkiller has become a symbol of power and respect, with some users believing it makes them more masculine.
The Risks of Tramadol Misuse:
– Health Consequences: Prolonged use can lead to kidney and liver damage, with some men in their 20s experiencing issues typically seen in older patients.
– Addiction: Withdrawal symptoms are intense, including restlessness, insomnia, aggression, and depression.
– Mortality: There’s a significant gap in understanding the true scale of Tramadol’s harm due to a lack of specific data on related deaths or overdose cases.
The Role of Popular Culture:
– Glorification: Some songs played in clubs and parties openly romanticise Tramadol use, embedding it deeper into youth behaviour.
– Social Impact: Tramadol abuse cuts across economic and social lines, affecting students, civil servants, and professionals in leadership positions.
