The Pharmaceutical Society of Ghana (PSGH) has strongly condemned the illegal importation of highly dangerous opioids into Ghana and other West African nations, calling for immediate action to curb the menace.
In a statement copied to The High Street Journal, PSGH expressed deep concern over the proliferation of unapproved pharmaceutical products, particularly those containing tapentadol and carisoprodol, which pose significant public health risks. The statement follows a BBC investigative report exposing how Indian pharmaceutical companies, such as Aveo Pharmaceuticals, have been exporting unlicensed opioid formulations—including Tafrodol, Timaking, and Super Royal-225—into Ghana.
“These drugs, which are not approved for medical use anywhere in the world, have been linked to rising cases of addiction and severe health complications,” the statement noted.
PSGH warned that opioid abuse has devastated communities, leading to increased substance dependency, mental health disorders, and socio-economic challenges. It also raised concerns that Ghana has become a key transit hub for these dangerous drugs despite existing regulatory frameworks designed to prevent their entry.
The society called for enhanced transparency and accountability in regulatory processes and urged authorities to take decisive action. PSGH specifically appealed to the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), the Pharmacy Council, Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA)-Customs Division, Criminal Investigation Department of the Ghana Police Service, Narcotics Control Authority, and the National Intelligence Bureau to conduct a thorough, independent investigation into the issue.
“If any local pharmaceutical company is found to have breached regulatory protocols, appropriate sanctions should be enforced to maintain the integrity of the pharmaceutical supply chain in Ghana,” the statement added.
PSGH further recommended stricter border controls, enhanced pharmacovigilance measures, strengthened interagency cooperation, and increased public awareness campaigns to combat the illicit opioid trade.
Reaffirming its commitment to ensuring the safety and efficacy of medicines in Ghana, PSGH urged all stakeholders—including the government, regulatory bodies, healthcare professionals, and the public—to work together in eradicating the illegal opioid trade and safeguarding public health.
