Mutsiwa, RM1, Munkombwe, D2 and Nyazema, NZ3
STM Pharmaceuticals1, Department of Pharmacy, University of Zambia2 and Department of Clinical Pharmacology, University of Zimbabwe3
Only about 1% of the opioids used worldwide is distributed to low-income countries, hence the clamour for increased opioid use in recent years. However, these efforts may not be sustainable since these drugs are not readily legally available. If not responsibly managed, this well-intended effort could worsen the abuse of opioids such as tramadol and, resultantly, pharmaceuticals may see the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region as one of the new profit-making grounds.
Almost half of all countries in Africa have reported non-medical use, seizures or trafficking of Tramadol between 2015 to 2019. The non-medical use of tramadol has become a growing concern among young people. Tramadol serves as a pain reliever and has a calming effect. In excess doses it can be an energizer. It is trafficked mainly from Asia making it affordable, less expensive and highly available. In Zambia, it has been reported to be used by pharmacy students for its perceived calming and anti-fatigue effects to improve physical and intellectual performances. In a study conducted in Zimbabwe, it has been observed to be mainly prescribed by inexpert healthcare professionals, mostly for women with intractable pain.
Rising awareness of tramadol misuse among policymakers, regulators, healthcare professionals, and the public has created momentum for new approaches to medicine-use management. This environment provides fertile ground for innovative pharmaceutical business solutions, including telepharmacy, digital prescribing oversight, pharmacovigilance analytics, and patient-centred digital care platforms.
The local SADC pharmaceutical and healthcare industry can prevent tramadol abuse by strictly controlling the supply chain, enforcing regional prescription standards, and educating communities. Exceptionally, high mobile-phone penetration in the SADC region presents a strategic advantage in the pursuit of quality digital pharmaceutical care and prevention of overuse and abuse of Tramadol.
Key words: Tramadol, Overuse, Abuse, Digital pharmaceutical care