A recent investigation by BBC Eye has uncovered troubling practices by Aveo Pharmaceuticals, a Mumbai-based firm, which is said to be producing and exporting highly addictive opioids to West Africa. The investigation highlights how these unlicensed drugs—primarily a mix of tapentadol and carisoprodol—are wreaking havoc on public health in countries like Ghana, Nigeria, and Cote D'Ivoire.
### Exposing a Dangerous Opioid Trade: Indian Pharma Firm's Role in West Africa Crisis
### Exposing a Dangerous Opioid Trade: Indian Pharma Firm's Role in West Africa Crisis
Indian pharmaceutical company Aveo Pharmaceuticals is allegedly manufacturing unlicensed opioids fueling a significant health crisis in West Africa, with a comprehensive BBC Eye investigation revealing the dire implications of this drug trade.
The investigation found that these pills, branded under various names such as Tafrodol, are sold cheaply on the streets and are popular among users despite their severe health risks, including the potential for overdose and addiction. The BBC team tracked the origin of these pills back to Aveo's facilities, with undercover footage revealing conversations with the company's director, who was disturbingly aware of the drugs' dangers, yet saw it merely as a business venture. Local task forces in Ghana are actively combating the rampant drug abuse, but the situation remains dire as the supply continues unabated.
The findings reveal a larger issue of accountability within pharmaceutical exports, raising concerns about regulation and safety in the international drug trade, while also drawing attention to West Africa's increasing battle with opioid addiction.
The findings reveal a larger issue of accountability within pharmaceutical exports, raising concerns about regulation and safety in the international drug trade, while also drawing attention to West Africa's increasing battle with opioid addiction.
