The Pharmaceutical Society of Ghana (PSGH) has issued a stern warning against the illegal importation and circulation of potent opioids in Ghana and other West African nations, highlighting serious public health and safety risks.
In an official press statement released on 24th February 2025, PSGH expressed deep concern over the increasing influx of unauthorized pharmaceutical substances, particularly opioids such as tapentadol and carisoprodol, which pose significant health hazards.
“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 cited a recent investigative report by the BBC, which uncovered the involvement of Indian pharmaceutical firms, including Aveo Pharmaceuticals, in distributing unapproved opioid formulations such as Tafrodol, Timaking, and Super Royal-225 to Ghana. PSGH warned that these substances, lacking global medical approval, have been linked to 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.
PSGH called on regulatory authorities to ensure full transparency and accountability in tackling this issue and urged an independent investigation. It also 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 organization further advocated for tighter border controls, enhanced pharmacovigilance, strengthened inter-agency collaboration, and widespread public awareness campaigns to curb the growing 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.
