By Stanley Senya
Accra, Feb. 24, GNA – The Pharmaceutical Society of Ghana (PSGH) has condemned the illicit importation of highly dangerous opioids into Ghana and other West African countries.
“As the professional body representing pharmacists and pharmaceutical stakeholders in Ghana, PSGH unequivocally condemns the proliferation of unapproved and harmful pharmaceutical products, particularly those containing tapentadol and carisoprodol, which pose severe public health risks”, it said.
In a statement copied to the Ghana News Agency in Accra, said a documentary by BBC that showed how companies like Aveo Pharmaceuticals of India exported unlicensed and unregistered opioid formulations, such as Tafrodol, Timaking, and Super Royal-225, into Ghana.
The statement said these drugs, which were not approved for medical use anywhere in the world, had been linked to rising cases of addiction and severe health complications in the region.
PSGH said the abuse of opioids had devastated communities, contributing to increased substance dependency, mental health disorders, and socio-economic challenges.
“The Society is deeply troubled by reports that Ghana has become a key transit hub for these dangerous drugs, despite regulatory measures designed to prevent such occurrences.”
The statement emphasized the need for regulatory agencies to ensure transparency and due process in determining culpability.
It called on the FDA, the Pharmacy Council, Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA)-Customs Division, Criminal Investigation Department of the Ghana Police Service, Narcotics Control Authority, National Intelligence Bureau and all relevant authorities to expedite a thorough, independent investigation into these allegations.
“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”, it added.
The pharmaceutical society further called for enhanced border controls, strict pharmcovigilance measures, interagency cooperation and public education and awareness to fight these acts.
“The PSGH remains committed to ensuring that only safe, effective, and approved medicines are available in Ghana. We urge all stakeholders, including the government, regulatory bodies, healthcare professionals, and the general public, to join hands in combatting the illicit opioid trade”, the statement said.
GNA