Common Medicines Nigerians Misuse: The Hidden Dangers of Paracetamol, Codeine and Tramadol

Drug misuse is not limited to illegal substances. Common medicines in Nigerian homes, including paracetamol, cough syrups containing codeine and tramadol, can cause serious harm when taken in excess, shared with others, or mixed with alcohol or other drugs. Taking more paracetamol than recommended, including through different brands containing the same ingredient, can cause severe liver damage. Misusing codeine, tramadol, sleeping pills or anti-anxiety medicines can lead to dependence, seizures, poor judgement and dangerous breathing problems. Inhalants such as petrol, glue and paint thinner can also cause lasting organ damage or sudden death. Antibiotics are often misused too. Taking them without proper medical advice or stopping treatment early does not produce a high, but it can fuel antibiotic resistance and make future infections harder to treat. Excess alcohol, energy drinks and caffeine tablets may also harm the heart, liver, sleep and mental health when used excessively. Use medicines only as directed, avoid sharing prescriptions or mixing substances without professional advice, and seek medical help urgently after a suspected overdose or if dependence develops. Legal medicines are not automatically safe when they are used wrongly.

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