FDA Confirms Seizure of Unapproved Opioids Following BBC Africa Eye Investigation
The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has responded to a BBC Africa Eye investigation that revealed the illegal export of unapproved opioids by India’s Aveo Pharmaceuticals to West African nations, including Ghana.
The report detailed how powerful opioids, tapentadol and carisoprodol, were smuggled into West Africa through Westfin International, primarily targeting Côte d’Ivoire, Nigeria, and Ghana.
In a statement released on February 26, the FDA clarified that these drugs are neither registered nor approved for medical use in Ghana. Tapentadol, a potent opioid, and carisoprodol, a muscle relaxant, carry serious health risks, including addiction, respiratory collapse, and confusion.
The FDA’s Centre for Import and Export Control (CIEC) confirmed that no import permits have been issued for products containing these substances.
“During the BBC investigation, the FDA was contacted and unequivocally confirmed that these drugs are unapproved and illegal for importation,” the statement read.
Seizures and Enforcement Actions
- In December 2023, Ghanaian authorities intercepted a container heading to Niger, which contained:
- 181 cartons of Royal 225mg (Tapentadol and Carisoprodol)
- 90 cartons of Tafradol 120mg
These products were seized and destroyed on February 21, 2025, following a court order in January 2025. - In May 2024, a joint operation by the FDA, National Security, Narcotics Control Commission, Ghana Revenue Authority (Customs Division), and Bureau of National Investigations uncovered:
- 376 cartons of Tramadol Hydrochloride 225mg (Tramaking 225mg) hidden among laboratory coverall suits.
The Tramadol was safely destroyed in October 2024.
Sanctions on Local Entities
The FDA has also taken decisive actions against local companies associated with Aveo Pharmaceuticals:
- Samos Pharma, a registered importer, has been ordered to terminate all collaborations with both Aveo Pharmaceuticals and Westfin International Private Limited.
- Masters Pharmaceutical Limited faces a suspension of product registration applications linked to Aveo Pharmaceuticals as a contract manufacturer.
- Additionally, Aveo Pharmaceuticals’ GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) certificate has been suspended.
The FDA’s latest actions reflect its commitment to protecting public health by preventing the distribution of unapproved and dangerous pharmaceuticals within Ghana.
Source: 3News