Drug abuse and addiction are serious problems in Sri Lanka. The country has been used as a transit hub for international drug traffickers, leading to a serious addiction problem among its citizens1. The situation is further complicated by the presence of drug mafias, which have been known to collude with medical specialists to promote and prescribe unsafe drugs23.
Drug addiction has severe impacts on public health, encouraging crime, causing diseases, poverty, and destruction of family life in Sri Lanka4. Heroin and cannabis (marijuana) are the most commonly used drugs in Sri Lanka4.
The pandemic has revealed the power of big pharma. Major drug manufacturers and suppliers have the power to set prices, influence regulators, and lobby lawmakers. This power has allowed big pharma to push potentially dangerous drugs2.
It is important to address the issue of drug abuse and addiction in Sri Lanka. The government has taken steps to combat drug trafficking by executing those who are under sentence of death for drug-related offenses5. However, more needs to be done to address the root causes of drug addiction and provide support for those struggling with addiction.
In conclusion, drug abuse and addiction are serious problems in Sri Lanka. The presence of drug mafias and the power of big pharma have made it difficult to combat these issues. It is important for the government to take steps to address the root causes of drug addiction and provide support for those struggling with
addiction.