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Boun SS, Omonaiye O, Yaya S. Prevalence and health consequences of nonmedical use of tramadol in Africa: A systematic scoping review. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2024; 4:e0002784. [PMID: 38236813 PMCID: PMC10796000 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0002784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2024]
Abstract
Tramadol is a widely prescribed painkiller around the world. As a synthetic opioid, it offers a valuable substitute for morphine and its derivatives in African countries. However, the adverse health effects of tramadol use resulting from illicit trafficking, like those caused by fentanyl and methadone in North America, have not been well-documented in Africa. This scoping review aims to shed light on the nature and scope of the nonmedical use (NMU) of tramadol in Africa and its associated health consequences. To carry out our scoping review, we used Arksey and O'Malley's (2005) five-step approach for exploratory analysis and followed Joanna Briggs Institute guidelines for scoping reviews to ensure systematic and replicable studies. We then searched six databases: Medline, Global Health (EBSCO), Scopus, Web of Science, the African Journals online database, and for grey literature via Google Scholar without any time restriction. The articles were imported into Covidence and reviewed by two independent researchers. Eighty-three studies on NMU of tramadol's prevalence or health consequences were selected from 532 titles/abstracts screened, including 60 cross-sectional and six qualitative studies from 10 African countries. Findings from the included studies highlighted five distinct groups significantly affected by the NMU of tramadol. These groups include: 1) young adults/active populations with varying degrees of prevalence ranging from 1.9% to 77.04%, 2) professionals, where drivers exhibit a relatively high prevalence of tramadol NMU, ranging from 7.2% to 35.1%, and commercial motorcyclists, with a prevalence of 76%, 3) patients, who have a high rate of tramadol NMUs, with prevalence rates ranging from 77.1% to 92%, 4) academics, with a considerable rate of tramadol misuse among substance-using undergraduates (74.2%) and substance-using high school students (83.3%), and 5) other individuals impacted in various ways. The health consequences are classified into four distinct types: intoxication, dependence syndrome, withdrawal syndrome and other symptoms. Despite providing a comprehensive global overview of the phenomenon described in the African literature, this systematic scoping review's main limitations stem from the relatively limited exploration of various consequences of the NMU of tramadol, notably those of a social and economic nature. Our review shows that tramadol misuse affects diverse populations in Africa. The prevalence of misuse varies within sub-populations, indicating the complexity of the issue. Professional and academic groups have different rates of misuse across regions. This highlights the need for targeted interventions to address unique challenges contributing to tramadol misuse. Future studies should focus on the social and economic costs of abuse on households to better understand the impact on well-being. Systematic review registration: Open Science Framework: https://osf.io/ykt25/.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saidou Sabi Boun
- School of International Development and Global Studies, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Olumuyiwa Omonaiye
- Centre for Quality and Patient Safety Research, Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
- Deakin University Centre for Quality and Patient Safety Research–Eastern Health Partnership, Box Hill, Victoria, Australia
| | - Sanni Yaya
- School of International Development and Global Studies, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- The George Institute for Global Health, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
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Ghorab D, Abu-El-Rub EM, Gharaibeh MH, Yehya A, Khasawneh RR, Matalqah LM, Helaly AM. Neurological Effects of Combining Low Toxic Dose of Tramadol and Nicotine: An Animal Model Evidence of Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 2023:1953356. [PMID: 37593523 PMCID: PMC10432102 DOI: 10.1155/2023/1953356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2023] [Revised: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/19/2023]
Abstract
Tramadol abuse is a common problem in the Middle East in conjunction with smoking. The current study applied immunohistochemistry, western blot, real-time PCR, and ELISA to test the combination toxicity. Low toxic doses of tramadol induced animal brain cortex inflammation and hippocampus injury. Adding nicotine reverted hippocampus pathological changes without triggering marked brain injury. The expression of CHOP protein with real-time PCR showed mild endoplasmic reticulum stress (ER) in rat's brain. Histological, immunohistochemical, and western blotting analysis of CHOP (CCAAT-enhancer-binding protein homologous protein) and BIP (immunoglobulin heavy chain-binding protein) chaperones demonstrated endoplasmic reticulum stress in the brains of animals. Furthermore, the levels of apoptosis and autophagy markers demonstrated a mild reaction. The blood level of serotonin was high in all study groups, with a marked increase in the combined one. The high serotonin levels in the blood can be critical and associated with a high risk of serious withdrawal and pathological consequences. Serotonin receptor blockers such as olanzapine may increase systemic serotonin levels and need further investigation to utterly pinpoint their roles in managing mood disorders. In conclusion, the combination of tramadol and nicotine is less harmful than expected. However, serious withdrawal effects can occur as a result of high systemic serotonin effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Doaa Ghorab
- Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Yarmouk University, Yarmouk, Irbid, Jordan
- Pathology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Ejlal M. Abu-El-Rub
- Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Yarmouk University, Yarmouk, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Mohamed Hamdi Gharaibeh
- Department of Basic Veterinary Medical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Alaa Yehya
- Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy, Yarmouk University, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Ramada R. Khasawneh
- Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Yarmouk University, Yarmouk, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Laila M. Matalqah
- Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Yarmouk University, Yarmouk, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Ahmed Mohamed Helaly
- Forensic Medicine and Toxicology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
- Clinical Sciences Department, Faculty of Medicine, Yarmouk University, Irbid, Jordan
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Hawangchu D, Rene Lamy F, Stephan Felix M, Phukao D. Transition from nonmedical prescribed opioids to non-injection heroin use among young integrated Thai male users in Bangkok. J Ethn Subst Abuse 2022:1-27. [PMID: 36190323 DOI: 10.1080/15332640.2022.2126421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/10/2022]
Abstract
Opioid use and misuse are understudied in Thailand despite evidence suggesting that a portion of young Thai male integrated drug users are initiating use of non-medical prescribed opioids with some transitioning to heroin. This study aims to capture and analyze the individual and social factors influencing these transitions. Twenty in-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted between December 2019 and January 2020 in the Bangkok metropolitan area with young male opioid users who transitioned to heroin. Sixteen respondents initiated opioid through a Tramadol cocktail named "YaPro" and tended to transition to heroin use within 21 months. The interaction of specific social and individual factors such as joining recreational activities, curiosity or experimentation gradually modified the opioid-related meanings, attitude and practices of Thai users, who ultimately transition to heroin use. These results indicate that drug prevention programs in Thailand should encompass young opioid users in their intervention and further research need to focus on nonmedical use of prescription opioids in Thailand.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donlachai Hawangchu
- Department of Society and Health, Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, Mahidol University, Salaya, Thailand
| | - Francois Rene Lamy
- Department of Society and Health, Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, Mahidol University, Salaya, Thailand
| | - Mark Stephan Felix
- Department of Society and Health, Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, Mahidol University, Salaya, Thailand
| | - Darunee Phukao
- Department of Society and Health, Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, Mahidol University, Salaya, Thailand
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Does tramadol dependence impair cognitive functions? Int Clin Psychopharmacol 2022; 37:67-71. [PMID: 35045529 DOI: 10.1097/yic.0000000000000389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study is to assess the effect of tramadol use on cognitive functions, especially executive functions. Thirty tramadol use disorder patients were recruited from those admitted to the toxicology departments of Menoufia University Hospitals for detoxification. Thirty controls were recruited from employees working at the faculty of medicine, Menoufia University. Both patients and controls underwent a demographic sheet and computerized cognitive battery. Patients also completed another sheet about substance use history. Urine screening for drugs was performed on all patients prior to admission. No differences regarding age, education or marital status were found between patients and controls. Tramadol-dependent patients showed cognitive impairment in the form of impaired visual-spatial memory and executive functions in comparison to controls. After detoxification, patients showed improvement regarding executive functions but not visual-spatial memory. Tramadol impairs cognitive functions in tramadol-dependent patients.
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Danso M, Anto F. Factors Associated with Tramadol Abuse: A Cross-Sectional Study Among Commercial Drivers and Assistants in the Accra Metropolitan Area of Ghana. Drugs Real World Outcomes 2021; 8:337-347. [PMID: 33909271 PMCID: PMC8324647 DOI: 10.1007/s40801-021-00247-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is increasing public health concern regarding the addiction and dependence potential of tramadol. OBJECTIVE This study sought to determine factors associated with tramadol abuse among commercial drivers and assistants in the Accra Metropolitan Area of Ghana. PATIENTS AND METHODS The study employed a mixed-method quantitative and qualitative approach. It involved a cross-sectional survey and focus group discussions with commercial drivers and assistants at selected transport terminals in Accra. Data on abuse, reasons for abuse, sources of supply, and factors associated with abuse were collected from the respondents and analyzed using STATA and Nvivo, as appropriate. RESULTS Of the 458 study participants, 114 (24.9%) indicated that they abused tramadol. The mean (± standard deviation) age of those who abused tramadol (25.14 ± 5.87 years) was significantly lower than that of nonabusers (28.23 ± 9.6 years), t(456) = -3.60; p = 0.001. The level of risk of dependence on tramadol among the abusers was high, as 49.1% (56/114) of abusers were estimated to have a composite risk score of ≥ 27. Various socioenvironmental factors, including tension or fighting among family members (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 7.73; 95% confidence interval [CI] 3.33-17.98; p < 0.001), abuse of drugs by a family member (AOR 2.27; 95% CI 1.26-4.11; p = 0.007), and having a friend who abused drugs (AOR 2.17; 95% CI 1.22-3.89; p = 0.009) were associated with tramadol abuse. Reasons given for using tramadol included pain relief and sexual enhancement. CONCLUSION The level of tramadol abuse and dependence was high. This calls for interventional programs, including health education, as dependency on tramadol has dire consequences on productivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mavis Danso
- School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
- Food and Drugs Authority, Accra, Ghana
| | - Francis Anto
- School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
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Abstract
Purpose of review Opioid use disorder (OUD) is a global phenomenon and is on the rise in Africa, denoting a shift from historical patterns of drug transport to internal consumption. In contrast, opioids for clinical pain management in Africa remain among the least available globally. This region also has the highest HIV and HCV disease burden, and the greatest shortages of health workers and addiction treatment. We undertook a systematic review of the literature to describe opioid use in Africa and how it is being addressed. Recent findings A total of 84 articles from 2000 to 2018 were identified. Descriptions of country-specific populations and patterns of opioid misuse were common. A smaller number of articles described interventions to address OUD. Summary OUD occurs in sub-Saharan Africa, with attendant clinical and social costs. Evidence-based policies and health system resources are needed to promote OUD prevention and management, and infectious disease transmission reduction.
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Azmy SM, Abd El fattah MA, Abd El-Rahman SS, Nada SA, Abdel Salam OM, El-Yamany MF, Nassar NN. Does nicotine impact tramadol abuse? Insights from neurochemical and neurobehavioral changes in mice. Neurotoxicology 2018; 67:245-258. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2018.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2017] [Revised: 05/16/2018] [Accepted: 06/10/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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Attia AM, Bakry OA, Yassin H, Sarhan N, Samaka R, Gamal N. Morphometric and ultrastructural analysis of tramadol effects on epididymis: an experimental study. Ultrastruct Pathol 2018; 42:295-303. [DOI: 10.1080/01913123.2018.1460435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Abdalla Mohamed Attia
- Department of Dermatology, Andrology and STDs, Faculty of Medicine, Menoufiya University, Shibeen El Koom, Egypt
| | - Ola Ahmed Bakry
- Department of Dermatology, Andrology and STDs, Faculty of Medicine, Menoufiya University, Shibeen El Koom, Egypt
| | - Hossam Yassin
- Department of Dermatology, Andrology and STDs, Faculty of Medicine, Menoufiya University, Shibeen El Koom, Egypt
| | - Naglaa Sarhan
- Department of Histology, Tanta Faculty of Medicine, Tanta, Egypt
| | - Rehab Samaka
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Menoufiya University, Shibeen El Koom, Egypt
| | - Nahla Gamal
- Department of Dermatology, Andrology and STDs, Faculty of Medicine, Menoufiya University, Shibeen El Koom, Egypt
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Khedr EM, Gabra RH, Noaman M, Abo Elfetoh N, Farghaly HSM. Cortical excitability in tramadol dependent patients: A transcranial magnetic stimulation study. Drug Alcohol Depend 2016; 169:110-116. [PMID: 27810653 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2016.09.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2016] [Revised: 09/04/2016] [Accepted: 09/20/2016] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Addiction to tramadol, a widely used analgesic, is becoming increasingly common. Tramadol can also induce seizures even after a single clinical dose. We tested whether the epileptogenicity of tramadol was associated with any changes in cortical excitability and inhibitory transmission using transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). METHODS The study included 16 tramadol dependent patients and 15 age and sex matched healthy volunteers. Clinical evaluation was conducted using an addiction severity index. TMS assessment of excitability was conducted on the motor cortex since the response to each TMS pulse at that site is easily measured in terms of the amplitude of the twitches it evokes in contralateral muscles. Measures included resting and active motor threshold (RMT and AMT respectively), motor evoked potential (MEP) amplitude, cortical silent period (CSP) duration, transcallosal inhibition (TCI), and short interval intracortical inhibition and facilitation (SICI and ICF respectively). Urinary level of tramadol was measured immediately before assessing cortical excitability in each patient. RESULTS RMT and AMT were significantly lower, the duration of the CSP was shorter and SICI was reduced in patients compared with the control group. These findings are suggestive of increased neural excitability and reduced GABAergic inhibition following exposure to tramadol. Also there were negative correlations between the severity of tramadol dependence and a number of cortical excitability parameters (AMT, RMT, and CSP with P=0.002, 0.005, and 0.04 respectively). CONCLUSIONS The results provide evidence for hyperexcitability of the motor cortex coupled with inhibitory deficits in tramadol dependent patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eman M Khedr
- Neuropsychiatry Department, Assiut University Hospital, Assiut, Egypt.
| | - Romany H Gabra
- Neuropsychiatry Department, Assiut University Hospital, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Mostafa Noaman
- Neuropsychiatry Department, Assiut University Hospital, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Noha Abo Elfetoh
- Neuropsychiatry Department, Assiut University Hospital, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Hanan S M Farghaly
- Pharmacology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
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