A growing number of young people in Ghana’s urban ghettos are becoming addicted to a potent opioid drug known as “RED,” leading to severe health and social consequences.
From nodding off in public to jeopardizing their well-being and livelihoods, the impact of this addiction is increasingly alarming.
Viral videos circulating on social media depict individuals slumping into a drowsy stupor, often linked to the abuse of tramadol—the main component in RED.
In the heart of one such community, a regular user, Fada, shared his experience.
“RED gives me the energy to work, so I love it. I don’t take it regularly, only when I’m in pain. We don’t need a prescription to get it. The pain we experience drives us to buy it.”
For Nana Kwesi, an artefact trader, the drug is an essential part of his daily routine.
“I can walk from Kumasi to Accra carrying heavy loads when I take RED. It makes me strong. I can carry two bags of cement with ease.”
However, another user, Manta, admits to being cautious about its effects.
“I’ve been using it for a while but avoid overdosing. I take it in halves because too much makes my skin itchy.”
Despite being a controlled substance, RED remains widely available. Dr. George, a Doctor of Pharmacy, explained its dangers.
“RED is largely tramadol, which is being abused. It’s illegal in the country, yet some use it to treat erectile dysfunction. What they don’t realize is that it reduces testosterone levels, worsening the very problem they’re trying to fix.”
For Henry, another user, the root of the problem lies in unemployment.
“If I had a job, I wouldn’t need to take RED. I’m open to any opportunity—driving, company work, anything.”
The rise in addiction calls for urgent intervention, including stricter regulations, increased public awareness, and expanded job opportunities to address the underlying causes of drug dependency among Ghana’s youth.