Patterns and social factors associated with non-prescription use of Tramadol: a cross-sectional study among youth in urban informal settlements in Ghana

Solomon Osei-Tutu, Felix Asante, Williams Agyemang-Duah, Obed Jones Owusu-Sarpong, Lawrencia Pokuah Siaw, Razak M. Gyasi

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Background: Non-prescription use of Tramadol is increasingly becoming common among vulnerable populations. This study examines the factors associated with non-prescription use of Tramadol among youth in urban informal settlements in the Asokore Mampong Municipality, Ghana. Methods: Cross-sectional data from Tramadol users aged 15 to 35 years living in urban informal settlements were analyzed. Non-prescription use of Tramadol was assessed using the item “Have you ever used Tramadol for any reason without a prescription from a healthcare professional?”. The responses were dichotomized as yes = 1, otherwise = 0. Multivariable logistic regression models evaluated the factors associated with non-prescription use of Tramadol. Results: Data on 200 Tramadol users were obtained. Family/friends (52.3%), were the main source of knowledge on Tramadol. Energy boost (43%) was the most cited reason for Tramadol use. Approximately 52% indicated a continuing non-prescription use of Tramadol for energy boost. Multivariable logistic regressions showed that those who lived alone (OR = 6.34: 95% CI = 2.03–19.82), migrants (OR = 3.97, 95% CI = 1.31–12.05) and the unemployed (OR = 3.57, 95% CI = 1.02–12.58) were significantly more likely to report non-prescription use of Tramadol. Conclusions: Non-prescription use of Tramadol is a threat to the youth in urban informal settlements in the Asokore Mampong Municipality. Interventions such as strict drug monitoring and regulation, drug use education, strict parental supervision, and sustainable jobs may contribute to controlling non-prescription use of Tramadol.

Original languageEnglish
Article number191
JournalJournal of Health, Population and Nutrition
Volume43
Issue number1
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Dec 2024
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Drug monitoring
  • Ghana
  • Non-prescription Tramadol use
  • Urban informal settlement
  • Vulnerable populations
  • Youth

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