Psychiatric specialist Dr. Albert Sedohia has warned about the growing opioid addiction crisis, describing it as both a business and a public health threat. Speaking on Joy News’ AM Show, he explained how opioids, including the recently introduced Tafrodol, trap users in a cycle of dependence.
Dr. Sedohia stated that addiction starts with impulsive use, which later turns into compulsive behavior, making it difficult for users to quit. “You start by using the drug, but soon, the drug begins to use you,” he explained.
He highlighted the dangers of Tafrodol, a more potent variant of Tramadol, created by illegal manufacturers to bypass restrictions. Tafrodol combines Tapentadol, a synthetic opioid, with Carisoprodol, a muscle relaxant. This combination, he noted, significantly increases its addictive potential.
“…Tapentadol and the Cariprosodol, have addictive potential, which means when you begin using them. There’s going to come a time where you will need more of it; that’s tolerance. You will need more doses of the same substance to have the same effect. Then, after some time, you keep on increasing the dose and increasing the dose and increasing the dose,” Dr. Sedohia said.
“When you lose control, you will continue using not because now you want to use it, but because if you stop, you’re going to have withdrawal symptoms.”
He pointed out that the opioid addiction crisis is prevalent among laborers who believe it enhances their endurance. However, he warned that addiction leads to severe consequences, including brain changes, poor decision-making, and dependence on multiple substances.
“You know, there’s a control center; that’s a prefrontal cortex. That’s where we make our decisions. The decisions you make and all those things are from your prefrontal cortex. It’s somehow fully matured after 24 years. If you start using drugs at an earlier stage, there will be delayed maturation of your prefrontal cortex, which means your decision-making will be faulty for a very long time. There will be changes in the brain that will take a longer time to remodel when you stop,” he said.
Dr. Sedohia also emphasized that genetics play a significant role in addiction. “Genetics is a 50% contributing factor. So two people can use the same drug. The effect you will have may be different from another person,” he cautioned.
Addressing concerns about opioid classification, he explained that opioids include both natural opiates, such as morphine and codeine, and synthetic substances made in laboratories. While some opioids are prescribed for medical purposes, misuse leads to recreational abuse, addiction, and severe health risks.
Dr. Sedohia urged strict regulation, public awareness, and early intervention to curb the growing opioid addiction crisis, particularly among vulnerable youth.
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