The Ministry of Health has announced a sweeping moratorium on Tramadol and Shisha, citing Liberia’s deepening drug epidemic as a national public health emergency. The new directive takes effect on August 22, 2025, and will be enforced under Part V, Chapter 41 of the Public Health Law, which governs the control of narcotic drugs.
According to the Ministry, Tramadol, a synthetic opioid, will now only be permitted for medical use within licensed hospital settings under professional supervision. Shisha, however, has been completely banned nationwide, covering both public and private spaces, including bars, clubs, drinking spots, and homes.
Officials warn that violators of this directive risk immediate penalties, including arrest, license revocation, and seizure of banned products.
Why the Ban Was Declared
Health authorities describe Tramadol as the most widely abused drug in Liberia, linking it to addiction, violence, mental health decline, and rising instability. Shisha, often mistaken as harmless, has been found to contain high levels of nicotine and carcinogens, putting young Liberians at serious risk of cancer, heart disease, and lifelong addiction.
“The abuse of these substances is destroying families, destabilizing communities, and threatening the future of Liberia’s young people,” the Ministry stated.
Controlled Narcotics Under Chapter 41
The Ministry reiterated that several narcotics remain strictly prohibited outside licensed medical use, including:
All opioids Morphine Codeine Thebaine Oxycodone Methadone Fentanyl Meperidine (Demerol) Pentazocine Tramadol
A Call to Action
The Ministry urged health professionals to follow prescription guidelines, pharmacy operators to comply with the moratorium, and community leaders, parents, and religious institutions to raise awareness and protect young people. Law enforcement has also been directed to act decisively against violators.
“This moratorium is a decisive and non-negotiable step to save lives, protect our youth, and safeguard national stability,” the statement concluded. “Liberia is in the grip of a dangerous drug epidemic, and the Ministry of Health will enforce this law with the full weight of government authority to protect our nation’s future.”
