By Franklin ASARE-DONKOH
The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has revoked the Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) certification of Samos Pharma’s export partner, Aveo Pharmaceuticals, following a BBC Africa Eye investigation that exposed the company’s alleged role in the illegal distribution of opioid-based medications across West Africa.
In response to the BBC Africa Eye investigation, the FDA has directed Samos Pharma, a Ghanaian importer, to terminate all transactions with Aveo Pharmaceuticals and Westfin International.
Additionally, the registration process for six products from Masters Pharmaceutical Limited, which planned to use Aveo Pharmaceuticals as a contract manufacturer, has been suspended.
Reaffirming its commitment to combating opioid abuse, the FDA vowed to intensify enforcement actions, including seizures, fines, and prosecutions of illegal drug distributors.
However, the agency has assured the general public of its readiness to work closely with law enforcement to prevent the infiltration of dangerous pharmaceuticals into Ghana.
The BBC Africa Eye investigation revealed that Aveo Pharmaceuticals, through Westfin International, exported unapproved drugs containing tapentadol and carisoprodol—powerful and highly addictive opioids—to Ghana, Nigeria, and Côte d’Ivoire.
According to health experts, when abused, these substances pose severe health risks, including respiratory collapse and death.
Commenting on the BBC Africa Eye exposé in Parliament on Tuesday, February 25, 2025, the Minister of Health, Mr. Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, raised concerns over the increasing infiltration of unregistered drugs into Ghana’s pharmaceutical market.
He warned that the influx of unapproved drugs, including tramadol brands and tapentadol—both classified as opioids—has led to widespread abuse, resulting in severe health complications and fatalities.
The Minister outlined government measures aimed at curbing this alarming trend.
“A joint task force involving the FDA, the Narcotics Control Commission, Customs, and the Ghana Revenue Authority has intensified checks at major entry points to prevent further unauthorized imports, leading to the destruction of a large consignment of Toradol and similar drugs.
Inspections have been intensified, and legal action is being taken against offenders. A national education campaign has been launched to warn the public about the dangers of illicit opioid use and to encourage responsible medication practices,” he announced.
