A media investigation into a pharmaceutical company based in Maharashtra, accused of unauthorized production of addictive opioids and their export to West Africa, resulted in a combined raid by state and central drug inspectors over the weekend, along with new restrictions on the manufacturing and export of such substances. The inspection of Aveo Pharmaceuticals Pvt Ltd’s facility and warehouse in Boisar, located in the Palghar district, was triggered by a BBC World Service documentary titled ‘India’s Opioid Kings.’ This documentary explored the public health crisis linked to pills made from a dangerous mix of tapentadol (a potent opioid) and carisoprodol (an addictive muscle relaxant), which were disguised as legitimate licensed medicines in countries like Nigeria and Ghana.
This combination of drugs is not authorized for use in any country globally. A representative from Nigeria’s drug enforcement agency informed the BBC, “They are arriving from India, and this has become a significant threat in Nigeria.” Officials from the Maharashtra FDA reported that the entire inventory was confiscated, and all production was promptly suspended. Additionally, the company faced a showcause notice.
