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Drug Abuse: Its More Than The "Hard Drugs" We Know

Drug Abuse: It’s More Than the “Hard Drugs” We Know

When we hear the words drug abuse or substance abuse, our minds often go straight to the familiar names — “Colos,” shisha, Igbo and other substances that have become popular in street culture. But the reality is much broader, and sometimes more subtle than we think.

Drug abuse is not just about the substances we commonly hear about; it also includes the misuse of medications that were originally meant for good. In Nigeria today, we see rising cases of people becoming addicted to opioids like tramadol and codeine drugs that are prescribed for patients with severe pain. When used without medical guidance or taken in excess, they become harmful, leading to dependence and long-term health complications.

Even something as “ordinary” as Paracetamol , or over-the-counter pain relievers, can be abused when taken outside prescription or used excessively. And while the effects are often discussed in terms of psychological or psychiatric health, there are physical consequences too. Excessive drug use places immense strain on vital organs such as the liver and kidneys (the body’s natural filters for food, medications, and toxins). 

Addiction is not as distant as we sometimes think. Many of us can admit to being dependent, in one way or another, on things that appear harmless like soda, caffeine, or even sugar. This should help us understand the struggles of those battling stronger addictions.

The heart of this message is simple: drug abuse is not limited to the drugs we stereotype. Every drug taken wrongly without prescription, in the wrong dose, or for too long can be harmful.

Here are a few reminders we should hold on to:

• Never take drugs without a doctor’s prescription.

• Always use the right dosage and stop when advised.

• Speak up. Secrecy makes struggles heavier. Openness and honesty are the first steps toward help and healing.

At the end of the day, health is not just about staying away from “hard drugs”; it’s about being intentional in every choice we make about what goes into our bodies.