By Seli Baisie
The Pharmaceutical Society of Ghana (PSGH) has issued a strong condemnation of the illegal importation of potent opioids into Ghana and other West African nations, warning of their serious implications for public health and safety.
In an official statement, PSGH raised concerns over the growing influx of unauthorized pharmaceutical substances, particularly those containing tapentadol and carisoprodol, which present significant health risks.
“As the recognized body for pharmacists and pharmaceutical professionals in Ghana, PSGH firmly opposes the circulation of unregulated and harmful medications, especially opioids like tapentadol and carisoprodol, which endanger public well-being,” the statement emphasized.
The Society referenced a recent BBC investigative report, which exposed how Indian pharmaceutical firms, including Aveo Pharmaceuticals, were involved in the distribution of unapproved opioid formulations—such as Tafrodol, Timaking, and Super Royal-225—to Ghana.
PSGH highlighted that these substances, lacking global medical approval, have been associated with rising cases of addiction and severe health complications in the region.
“There is growing concern that Ghana has become a major transit point for these hazardous drugs, despite regulatory frameworks designed to prevent their entry and distribution,” the Society noted.
The organization called on regulatory authorities to ensure full transparency and accountability in addressing this issue, urging an in-depth and independent investigation into the matter. PSGH further appealed to key enforcement agencies—including the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), Pharmacy Council, Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA)-Customs Division, Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service, Narcotics Control Authority, and National Intelligence Bureau—to take decisive action.
“If any local pharmaceutical company is found to have violated regulatory protocols, necessary penalties must be enforced to safeguard the integrity of Ghana’s pharmaceutical industry,” PSGH stressed.
The Society also advocated for tighter border controls, strengthened pharmacovigilance, enhanced inter-agency collaboration, and widespread public awareness campaigns to curb the escalating opioid crisis.
“PSGH remains committed to ensuring that only safe, effective, and legally approved medications are accessible in Ghana. We call on all stakeholders—including the government, regulatory bodies, healthcare professionals, and the public—to unite in the fight against the illegal opioid trade,” the statement concluded.
With concerns mounting over the influx of unregulated opioids, industry stakeholders continue to push for urgent interventions to protect public health and prevent further harm.
Below is the statement;
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