Beware: 4 Drugs Nigerians Abuse That Silently Damage Your Health

Nigerians are strong people, it’s the gene as many do say, however many Nigerians do not know there are some drugs that are not supposed to be used without a doctor’s prescription.

We use these drugs without any prescriptions and, just like that, we are good. However, the health implications of these drugs could be fatal if not quickly looked into. Just because we don’t have immediate reactions to these drugs does not mean they are not affecting us slowly and quietly.

Many Nigerians rely on over-the-counter medications to treat everyday illnesses. While these medications can be helpful when used correctly, there’s a growing concern about the misuse and abuse of certain drugs. Let’s look at four commonly used medications and why proper use is important for your well-being.

1. Paracetamol:

Paracetamol is a pain reliever and fever reducer. It’s a safe and effective medication for occasional headaches, muscle aches, and fever. However, without proper prescription and doctor’s instructions, it can be fatal.

Excess intake of paracetamol can lead to liver failure, which can ultimately lead to death. Unfortunately, symptoms of excessive intake of paracetamol do not show immediately, and won’t give signs. By the time you experience vomiting and nausea which are the likely symptoms, significant liver damage may have occurred. Importantly, read the body of the drugs and follow the instructions.

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2. Tetracycline:

Tetracycline is an antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections. Antibiotics are vital medications, but misusing them can lead to antibiotic resistance. When you take tetracycline excessively, there is the potential of it leading to kidney failure. Usually, these drugs don’t give instant symptoms, unless it has reached an irreversible point. Tetracycline overdose also can lead to pressure around the brain, and you know the brain is a sensitive part of the human body.

3. Indocin

Popularly used to even kill small rats at home. Indocin originally is used to relieve pain and assist with inflammatory issues. However, Nigerians just buy the drug to treat any pain issues without knowing what the challenges or causes of such issues could be.

When excessively taken, it can lead to stroke and heart attack. Indocin should not be taken without a doctor’s prescription and is not to be given to children without proper diagnosis by the physician.

4. Flagyl:

Flagyl (brand name for metronidazole) is another antibiotic, but it targets different types of infections than tetracycline. Similar to tetracycline, many people take this drug without asking or seeking approval from their doctors, simply because they are used to the drug and have always trusted its reaction on their body.

When excessively taken, it can lead to stomach irritation, nausea and vomiting. Meanwhile, its long-term health challenges can be weakness in the hands and feet.

Flagyl should only be used as prescribed by a doctor to fight specific infections. Taking it unnecessarily also contributes to antibiotic resistance.