The Pharmaceutical Society of Ghana (PSGH) has raised serious concerns over the illegal importation and distribution of unapproved opioids into Ghana and other West African countries, as revealed by recent investigative reports, including the BBC Africa Eye documentary. The Society has condemned the influx of these dangerous pharmaceuticals, particularly those containing tapentadol and carisoprodol, citing the severe public health risks they pose.
The documentary alleges that Aveo Pharmaceuticals, an Indian pharmaceutical company, has been exporting unregistered opioid formulations such as 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 a rise in addiction cases and serious health complications in the region. PSGH expressed deep concern over the devastating effects of opioid abuse on communities, warning that the growing availability of these illicit drugs could worsen substance dependency, mental health disorders, and social challenges. The Society also noted with alarm that Ghana has become a key transit hub for these dangerous substances despite existing regulatory measures designed to prevent such activities.
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In response to reports implicating some Ghanaian pharmaceutical importers, PSGH acknowledged that several companies have denied any involvement in illegal activities, stating that all their imports comply with regulations set by Ghana’s Food and Drugs Authority (FDA). While the Society does not absolve any entity without a thorough investigation, it emphasises the importance of transparency and due process in determining culpability. PSGH has called on the FDA, the Pharmacy Council, the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) Customs Division, the Ghana Police Service’s Criminal Investigation Department (CID), the Narcotics Control Authority, and the National Intelligence Bureau to conduct an independent and comprehensive investigation into these allegations. The Society insists that if any local pharmaceutical company is found to have breached regulatory protocols, it must face the appropriate sanctions to uphold the integrity of Ghana’s pharmaceutical supply chain.
To prevent the continued infiltration of unapproved opioids and protect public health, PSGH is urging authorities to strengthen border controls by increasing surveillance at all entry points. It is also calling for stricter monitoring of pharmaceutical imports and harsher penalties for non-compliance with regulatory standards. The Society believes that enhanced collaboration between law enforcement agencies, health regulators, and professional bodies is necessary to dismantle illicit pharmaceutical networks. Additionally, it is advocating for increased public education on the dangers of opioid abuse and the promotion of responsible medication use. PSGH further urged the Government of Ghana to engage with Indian regulatory bodies and global health organizations to stop the export of unlicensed drugs into West Africa.
Reaffirming its commitment to public safety, PSGH emphasized that only safe, effective, and approved medicines should be available in Ghana. The Society called on all stakeholders—including the government, regulatory agencies, healthcare professionals, and the general public—to work together in the fight against illicit opioid trade. It assured Ghanaians of its continued advocacy for stronger pharmaceutical governance and accountability to protect the nation’s health and well-being.
