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Contaminated Cough Syrup Linked to Child Deaths
2 Dec
Summary
- Investigation found 4 out of 19 collected drug samples were substandard.
- Syrup 'Coldrif' contained 46.28% Diethylene Glycol, a toxic substance.
- Authorities issued advisories and banned suspect cough syrup batches nationwide.
An inquiry into a cluster of child deaths in Chhindwara, Madhya Pradesh, has uncovered serious issues with pharmaceutical quality. A central expert team investigated the reported cases, collecting 19 drug samples consumed by affected children. Analysis revealed four samples were not of standard quality, with one identified as 'Coldrif' cough syrup containing 46.28% Diethylene Glycol.
Authorities took swift action against the manufacturer, Sresan Pharmaceuticals, in Tamil Nadu. Their manufacturing license was cancelled due to significant good manufacturing practices violations, including unhygienic conditions. Criminal action has been initiated, leading to arrests and a nationwide ban and recall of the suspect cough syrup batches in affected states.
Further measures include nationwide advisories for the rational use of pediatric cough syrups and heightened market surveillance for substandard drugs. Regulations have been amended to mandate testing for Diethylene Glycol in oral liquids, ensuring greater safety for young patients.
