India Bans Addictive Opioids Following BBC Probe into West Africa Drug Crisis
Authorities in India have banned two highly addictive opioids—tapentadol and carisoprodol—after a BBC investigation revealed they were fueling a public health crisis in West Africa.
In a letter obtained by the BBC, Dr. Rajeev Singh Raghuvanshi,
India’s Drugs Controller General, stated that manufacturing and export permissions for the drugs had been withdrawn immediately.
The BBC Eye investigation uncovered that Aveo Pharmaceuticals, an Indian pharmaceutical company, had been illegally exporting a dangerous combination of tapentadol and carisoprodol to Ghana, Nigeria, and Cote D’Ivoire.
Following the revelations, India’s Food and Drug Administration (FDA) raided Aveo’s Mumbai factory, seizing its entire stock and halting further production.
Dr. Raghuvanshi’s circular cited the BBC’s findings and highlighted concerns over the potential for drug abuse and its harmful impact on the population.
Why the Drugs Were Banned
- Tapentadol: A powerful opioid linked to addiction.
- Carisoprodol: A muscle relaxant so addictive it is banned in Europe and only approved for short-term use in the US.
- Combination Risks: The mix of both drugs is not licensed anywhere globally due to risks of breathing difficulties, seizures, and fatal overdoses.
Despite these dangers, the drugs have become popular street narcotics in many West African countries, primarily because of their low cost and easy availability.
West Africa’s Opioid Crisis
Public export data shows that Aveo Pharmaceuticals and Westfin International have shipped millions of opioid tablets to West Africa. Nigeria, with its 225 million population, is the biggest market, with an estimated four million Nigerians abusing opioids, according to the National Bureau of Statistics.
Undercover Footage Exposes Illicit Practices
In a sting operation, a BBC undercover operative posing as an African businessman recorded Aveo director Vinod Sharma showcasing the drugs destined for West African markets.
In the footage, Sharma acknowledges the drugs’ harmful effects, stating:
“This is very harmful for the health… but nowadays, this is business.”
Despite knowing the drugs would be sold to teenagers in Nigeria, Sharma expressed no objection, emphasizing the profitability of the trade.
Indian Authorities Respond
The FDA confirmed that Aveo’s stock had been confiscated, with further legal action pending. The agency reiterated its commitment to safeguarding India’s reputation, stating it is “fully prepared” to act against illegal activities.
Additionally, Dr. Raghuvanshi has directed further inspections to ensure no future supply of the banned drugs.