Instructions to Halt Production of Tapentadol, Carisoprodol, and Related Products; Action Taken as per Central Guidelines

Mumbai : Following a media report aired by BBC on February 21, a joint team of drug inspectors from the Government of India and the Maharashtra Government conducted a raid on the manufacturing facility and storage warehouse of Aveo Pharmaceuticals in the state. The entire stock has been seized, and further production has been halted, as per directives issued by Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Commissioner Rajesh Narwekar.

The BBC report highlighted that opioids such as Tramadol, Tapentadol, and Carisoprodol are being produced in India and exported to Nigeria, Ghana, and other African countries, where they are misused for recreational purposes. The report also featured a sting operation on Aveo Pharmaceuticals, indicating that the company was in the process of exporting Tapentadol to African nations.

Under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940, a show-cause notice had already been issued to the company. Authorities have assured that strict and impartial legal action will be taken without delay or any form of intimidation.

On February 21, the Government of India directed all states to revoke export No Objection Certificates (NOCs) and manufacturing permissions for Tapentadol, Carisoprodol, and similar products. The Maharashtra FDA has already initiated action in compliance with these guidelines.

The Maharashtra Government, in coordination with the Central Government, is fully prepared to take strict action against elements that bring disrepute to the country and state. Commissioner Narwekar confirmed that immediate inspections, production halts, and export restrictions have been ordered to prevent further misuse of these drugs.