Narcotic pills seized from passenger's bag at Hamad International Airport

Narcotic pills

Customs authorities in Qatar have seized hundreds of illicit narcotics pills from the bag of a passenger at the Hamad International Airport.

The General Authority of Customs on Monday said its inspectors seized 100 pills of tramadol and two other kinds drug pills numbering 455 and 18.

Tramadol serves as a pain reliever and has a calming effect. Some people use it to help them sleep. However in excess doses it can be an energiser. The drug reportedly gives users energy to travel long distances or to work longer hours. However its long-term use can lead to opioid addiction and an overdose can lead to respiratory depression, seizures or death.

In 2014, the United States Food and Drug Administration designated tramadol as a controlled substance. This means that although it may have accepted use in medical care, it also has potential for abuse or addiction and therefore is more tightly regulated. For example, a doctor can only prescribe a maximum of five refills, and a new prescription is required every 6 months.