NAFDAC blacklists Indian pharmaceuticals company over illegal opioid exportation

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has blacklisted Aveo Pharmaceuticals, an Indian-based company, over its involvement in the production and illegal exportation of opioids to West Africa, including Nigeria.

The Director General of NAFDAC, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, at a press briefing in Abuja, explained that Aveo Pharmaceuticals, managed by Vinod Sharma, is implicated in the manufacture and illegal exportation of Tapentadol and Tramadol doses above 100mg, particularly 250mg.

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“These opioids are sold under various brand names, including Tafrodol and Royal-225, and are popular as street drugs in many West African countries due to their affordability and widespread availability.

“NAFDAC has never registered Tafrodol or Royal 225, nor any product manufactured by Aveo Pharmaceuticals Pvt Limited. The agency has put in place measures to prevent future registration of any product manufactured by this company.”

Adeyeye also warned the public to avoid using unregistered products and consuming medicines without prescriptions from trained medical practitioners.

She assured that NAFDAC will continue to deploy various methods to ensure that only quality, safe, and efficacious medicines are available for distribution, sale, and use within Nigeria.

“The illegal exportation of opioids by Aveo Pharmaceuticals has serious implications for public health in Nigeria and other West African countries. The misuse of these opioids can lead to addiction, overdose, and even death.”

“NAFDAC has intensified its enforcement activities against the sale of illicit and counterfeit pharmaceuticals and is working with other regulatory authorities and security agencies to prevent the entry of these dangerous products into Nigeria.”

“The agency has also called on the public to support its efforts in fighting against fake, substandard, and falsified pharmaceutical products. Prof. Adeyeye emphasized that the public has a crucial role to play in reporting any suspicious activities or products to NAFDAC.”

“In addition, NAFDAC has partnered with international organizations and regulatory agencies to share intelligence and best practices in combating the illicit trade of pharmaceuticals. This collaboration is critical in disrupting the supply chain of counterfeit and substandard medicines.”

“The blacklisting of Aveo Pharmaceuticals serves as a warning to other companies involved in the illicit trade of pharmaceuticals. NAFDAC will continue to take decisive action against any company or individual found to be involved in the production, distribution, or sale of fake, substandard, or falsified pharmaceutical products.”

“This action demonstrates the agency’s commitment to protecting public health and ensuring that only safe and efficacious medicines are available in Nigeria.

“The public is urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities or products to NAFDAC,” she said.