Côte d’Ivoire: Why so much harshness against Alcoholic Energy Drinks?
The responsible consumption of alcoholic energy drinks itself is not the real problem. However, mixing these drinks with certain dangerous substances, such as tramadol, represents a major public health risk. Indeed, according to scientists, tramadol is more dangerous than alcoholic energy drinks. Yet, it remains accessible in the Ivorian market.
Tramadol is a powerful analgesic, often used to treat moderate to severe pain. However, its non-medical use is alarming. The side effects include respiratory depression, seizures, and even death in case of overdose. The risk is exacerbated when mixed with alcohol such as whiskey, wine, beer, champagne, and other beverages, not just energy drinks, thus amplifying the harmful effects on the central nervous system.
Given these dangers, a question arises: why ban the import, manufacture, and sale of alcoholic energy drinks while tramadol, even more dangerous, is still on the market? Additionally, why not consider other alcoholic beverages like whiskey, wine, and beer? This inconsistency in regulations calls for a deeper reflection on public health priorities in Côte d’Ivoire.
The unfair competition strategies adopted by some companies that have used unorthodox means to ban alcoholic energy drinks in Côte d’Ivoire are to be condemned. These unethical practices not only harm legitimate traders but also distort the market by favoring particular interests at the expense of collective well-being.
Ivorian authorities must find a fair balance in their regulatory decisions. The priority should be protecting public health while ensuring economic fairness for traders. It is imperative to review current policies to penalize not only truly dangerous substances like tramadol but also to implement fair and transparent regulations concerning alcoholic energy drinks. Responsible consumption of alcoholic energy drinks should not be wrongly demonized.
