The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has suspended the Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) certification of Aveo Pharmaceuticals, an Indian drug manufacturer, over its alleged involvement in the illegal distribution of opioid-based medications to West Africa.
This decision follows a BBC Africa Eye investigation, which revealed that Aveo Pharmaceuticals, through its distributor Westfin International, exported unapproved drugs containing tapentadol and carisoprodol to Ghana, Nigeria, and Côte d’Ivoire.
These substances, classified as highly addictive opioids, pose significant health risks, including respiratory failure and death when abused.
In response to the exposé, the FDA has directed Samos Pharma, a Ghana-based importer, to immediately halt all dealings with Aveo Pharmaceuticals and Westfin International.
Additionally, the registration process for six pharmaceutical products from Masters Pharmaceutical Limited, which intended to use Aveo Pharmaceuticals as a contract manufacturer, has been put on hold.
The regulatory authority has emphasized the importance of strict compliance with drug safety protocols, warning that any company involved in illegal pharmaceutical distribution will face severe consequences.
The FDA has reaffirmed its commitment to combating opioid abuse, stressing that its enforcement measures include seizures, fines, and legal action against unauthorized drug distributors.
The agency assured the public that it will continue collaborating with law enforcement to prevent the influx of dangerous pharmaceuticals into the country.
This decisive action reinforces Ghana’s stance against illicit drug trafficking and highlights the country’s ongoing efforts to protect public health from harmful and unregulated medications.
