Credit: Kekeli K. Blamey
In a decisive move to combat the illicit opioid trade, the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) of Ghana has revoked the Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) certification of Aveo Pharmaceuticals, an Indian-based drug manufacturer.
The FDA’s action follows a damning BBC Africa Eye investigation, which exposed Aveo Pharmaceuticals’ alleged involvement in the exportation of unapproved opioid-based medications to West Africa.
The investigation revealed that the company had shipped large quantities of tapentadol and carisoprodol to Ghana, Nigeria, and Côte d’Ivoire through its agent, Westfin International.
The FDA has also ordered Samos Pharma, a Ghana-based importer, to sever all ties with Aveo Pharmaceuticals and Westfin International.
Also, the regulatory body has suspended the registration process for six products from Masters Pharmaceutical Limited, which had intended to use Aveo Pharmaceuticals as a contract manufacturer.
“The FDA is committed to protecting the health and safety of the Ghanaian public,” said a spokesperson for the agency. “We will continue to work tirelessly to prevent the influx of illicit pharmaceuticals into the country and to bring those involved in this nefarious trade to justice.”
The FDA’s move is seen as a significant step in the fight against opioid smuggling in West Africa. The region has been plagued by the illicit opioid trade, which has resulted in widespread addiction and related health problems.
