The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has implemented strict measures against Aveo Pharmaceuticals Pvt Limited, an Indian firm, prohibiting its operations because of its participation in the illicit manufacturing and distribution of dangerous opioid mixtures throughout West Africa, including Nigeria.
In a statement released on Friday, the Director General of NAFDAC, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, revealed the agency’s findings, emphasizing the severe health risks associated with the company’s medications. “Our investigations have confirmed that Aveo Pharmaceuticals is illegally manufacturing and distributing opioid products, which have been found on the streets of Nigeria, Ghana, and Côte d’Ivoire,” Adeyeye stated.
Among the dangerous drug combinations recognized are Tafrodol and Royal 225, both containing a risky blend of Tapentadol, a strong opioid, and Carisoprodol, a muscle relaxant that is prohibited in multiple countries because of its significant potential for abuse. NAFDAC has cautioned that these substances could result in serious health problems, including respiratory failure, seizures, overdose, and possibly death.
A report by the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) revealed hidden camera footage showing Vinod Sharma, a senior executive at Aveo Pharmaceuticals, allegedly confessing to the extensive distribution of high-dose opioids for illegal street sales. This alarming discovery has raised significant concerns about the company’s practices.
NAFDAC raised additional issues regarding Aveo Pharmaceuticals exporting Tramadol tablets in doses greater than 100mg, a strength that is not registered and banned in Nigeria. The agency emphasized that the company has been distributing high-dose opioids that are not sanctioned for medical use in the country, contributing to the drug abuse crisis in the area.
In light of the findings, NAFDAC has placed Aveo Pharmaceuticals on a blacklist, preventing the registration of any of its products in Nigeria.
The agency reaffirmed its dedication to protecting public health through rigorous pharmaceutical regulations.”We are increasing surveillance, conducting pre-shipment inspections, and enforcing regulations to block the importation of dangerous drugs into our nation,” NAFDAC stated.
