Toxic Syrup Alert: Children's Medicine Adulterated

An urgent advisory has been issued by the Telangana Drugs Control Administration (DCA) concerning Almont-Kid Syrup, a medication commonly prescribed to children for allergy symptoms. The syrup has been identified as adulterated with Ethylene Glycol (EG), a hazardous chemical that poses significant health risks. Consumers are strongly advised to cease its use immediately if in possession and report it to the nearest Drugs Control Authority without delay.

Ethylene Glycol, a colorless and odorless liquid, is known for its low freezing and high boiling points, making it a common component in antifreeze and deicing solutions. Despite its toxicity, it has a sweet taste, increasing the risk of accidental ingestion by children. Ingesting EG can lead to severe and potentially fatal health complications, affecting multiple organ systems.

The poisoning progresses through several stages, initially mimicking alcohol intoxication before leading to severe metabolic acidosis, heart and lung failure, and acute kidney damage due to the formation of toxic metabolites and oxalate crystals. Without prompt medical intervention, the condition can result in multi-organ collapse and irreversible damage, underscoring the critical importance of avoiding this adulterated medication.