In the ‘dry state’ of Gujarat, citizens are opting for pills to get inebriated. More than 1,200 such cases have been reported in the past four years.

Using cough syrups, tramadol tablets, buprenorphine, and other painkiller medicines to get high has emerged as a new trend in the state.

These medicines can lead to serious diseases such cancer and cause liver-related issues, according to experts. 

Not only Ahmedabad, but border areas in Banaskantha are also plagued by the rampant misuse of drugs. 

The sale of these drugs without a prescription is prohibited, yet trafficking continues, and illegal use persists.

As per a report submitted by the Union Home ministry to the Lok Sabha, 1,208 cases relating to the illegal use of tramadol and buprenorphine were registered in Gujarat between 2018 and 2021. 

Despite efforts to curb this menace, the misuse of these drugs remains a significant concern.

Cases of tramadol and buprenorphine usage in 4 years

According to experts of an Ahmedabad-based addiction centre, patients who are cured from consumption of opium or alcohol, have been found to get addicted to medicines like tramadol, and buprenorphine, and consume 30-40 pills in a day.

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₹8,000 cr drugs seized in Gujarat in 1 year: Is dry state new narco haven?