Red 225 abuse plaguing youth
A dangerous epidemic is silently spreading across Ghana’s ghettos—the abuse of Red 225 tablets.
Originally meant as a strong painkiller, it has now become a cheap and deadly drug, luring many young people, especially in deprived communities.
The problem is so widespread that a chilling phrase has emerged: “Wonim Red?” —meaning “Do you know Red?” — a question that now symbolises the growing crisis.
Red 225’s appeal lies in the intense euphoria it creates, followed by a deep, numbing calm.
For many struggling with poverty and unemployment, it offers a temporary escape from life’s harsh realities. But the cost is devastating.
Users often enter a trance-like state, standing motionless for hours, unaware of their surroundings—a haunting image of addiction’s grip.
Young men and women once full of promise are now frozen in despair.
The health risks are severe. Red 225 was never meant for recreational use, and its abuse can lead to respiratory failure, heart problems, and serious mental disorders.
Addiction drives users into crime, isolation and hopelessness, tearing families apart and weakening entire communities.
Ghana’s future workforce is at risk, with more youth being lost to substance abuse every day.
The crisis demands urgent action. Authorities must regulate the sale of Red 225 and dismantle illegal supply chains.
Public awareness campaigns should educate at-risk communities on its dangers, while rehabilitation centres need expansion to support those struggling with addiction.
More importantly, Ghana must tackle the root causes—poverty, unemployment and lack of social support.
Empowering the youth through job creation, skills training and mental health support will offer them real alternatives to drugs.
When young people have hope and opportunities, they are less likely to seek solace in harmful substances.
“Wonim Red?” should signal the rise of drug culture and serve as a national wake-up call.
Ghana cannot afford to lose its youth to this silent epidemic.
Stephen Bernard Donkor,
NSA Corporate Affairs Department.
E-mail: sbdonkorjunior@gmail.com