The Dangerous Secret Behind Tramadol

Tramadol, a popular painkiller in sports like football and rugby, has a dark side. While it provides relief and aids sleep, it is also highly addictive and can lead to a ruined life.

Moves to Ban Tramadol

The World Anti-Doping Agency has decided to ban Tramadol starting from January 1, 2022. Any athlete caught with the drug in their system will face a lengthy suspension. But will this ban be effective?

The Challenges of Policing Addiction

While the ban is a step in the right direction, policing addiction in sports is a difficult task. The allure of relaxation and improved sleep has tempted injured players to go beyond medical advice and turn to Tramadol. Medical staff at clubs need to be educated about the dangers of the drug and the consequences faced by users.

The After-Effects of Tramadol

Tramadol, an opioid, has more potency than alternatives like paracetamol. Immediate effects include vomiting, vertigo, constipation, and drowsiness. But the real problem arises with addiction, leading to psychiatric symptoms such as hallucinations, panic attacks, paranoia, and extreme anxiety. Withdrawal symptoms can last up to seven days.

The Struggle with Cheating in Sports

Drug use in sports has a long history, and as medicine and chemistry become more advanced, it becomes harder to prevent and control such cheating. Tramadol's use for pain relief and sleep improvement has made the ban a controversial topic in football.

Ryan Cresswell's Battle with Painkiller Addiction

Former Bury star Ryan Cresswell knows the dangers of painkiller addiction all too well. He took legal drugs, including Tramadol, to manage his knee pain throughout his career. Cresswell now urges players to seek help if they develop reliance or addiction.

The Role of PFA

The Professional Footballers' Association (PFA) has stepped in to address the issue. Dr. Michael Bennett, the director of player wellbeing, encourages players to utilize the PFA's services if they need support. Addiction to Tramadol has caused significant problems in the lives of players.