Coldrif controversy has intensified with multiple states banning the cough syrup after lab tests done by Tamil Nadu drug control found toxic diethylene glycol (DEG) at 48.6% in Coldrif syrup samples, confirming the poisoning cause. At least 14 children, most of them below 5, died of kidney failure complications after consuming the toxic cough syrup, in Madhya Pradesh’s Chhindwara district. In Rajasthan similar deaths linked to the cough syrup have been suspected, according to Reuters. The initial symptoms that the children suffered in these cases include common cold, flu and fever.
Nationwide investigation launched
Police have launched a manslaughter investigation into the deaths of the children, according to Reuters. Authorities have identified Coldrif manufacturer Sresan Pharma as one of the primary accused and have also arrested a doctor who allegedly prescribed the medicine to several of the victims. Tamil Nadu government has sent a show-cause notice to Sresan Pharma over cough syrup deaths in MP, Rajasthan.
The Union Health Ministry on Friday had initiated risk-based inspection at the manufacturing premises of 19 drugs across six states, after samples of Coldrif cough syrup was found with diethylene glycol (DEG) above permissible limits.
The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) initiated risk-based inspection of drug manufacturing units in the states of Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, Madhya Pradesh, and Maharashtra. The 19 samples included cough syrups, antipyretics, and antibiotics.
Which states have banned Coldrif so far
Madhya Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Punjab, Rajasthan, Puducherry, Karnataka, have banned the sale of Coldrif cough syrup. The sale in Kerala has been banned as a precaution as the toxic batch has not been distributed in the state. On October 1, Tamil Nadu banned the syrup in the state and suspended production at Sresan Pharmaceuticals’ Kancheepuram unit. It also ordered a market recall. Madhya Pradesh followed suit, banning the drug and seized the stocks. The state also announced ex-gratia compensation of Rs 4 lakh each for victims’ families. A special investigation team (SIT) has been set up to probe the death of 14 children. Telangana has issued public warnings too and other states may follow soon.
Which substance has caused the cough syrup poisoning?
The syrup contained the toxin diethylene glycol in quantities nearly 500 times the permissible limit, as per a police complaint seen by Reuters. The same toxins have killed at least 141 children in Gambia, Uzbekistan and Cameroon since 2022, and another 12 children in India in 2019, according to Reuters.
Centre issues urgent advisory, says cough syrup shouldn’t be given to children below 2
The Centre on Friday issued an advisory to all states and Union territories, directing that cough and cold medicines should not be prescribed to children under the age of two. It said most acute cough illnesses in children are self-limiting and get better on their own without medication. The advisory further stated that cough syrups are not recommended for children below five years, and for older children, their use should be based on careful clinical evaluation, with close supervision, strict adherence to correct dosage, and use for the shortest possible duration, while avoiding multiple drug combinations.
Common causes of cough syrup death in children
Most cough syrup fatalities in children are the result of overdose, contamination, or misadventure. Because young children are especially sensitive to medicines, even very small amounts of a toxic substance can have serious effects on organ function. Contaminated syrup or an inappropriate dose can lead to kidney failure, respiratory distress, or neurological problems, all of which can rapidly be life-threatening, says Dr. Vivek Jain, Senior Director & Unit Head- Paediatrics, Fortis Hospital Shalimar Bagh.
Safe cough remedies for children
Safer treatments for children under age 6 include honey (for children over 1 year of age), warm fluids, and steam inhalation. Saline nasal drops, gentle rubs on the chest, and making sure the room is humidified are helpful for cough relief as well.
“Always check with a doctor before giving any medication, and do not purchase pharmacy cough syrups, unless prescribed by a doctor. Under most circumstances, natural and supportive care is better for young children than medicine,” says Dr Jain.
Disclaimer: Always consult a doctor before starting any diet or fitness routine. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.