What caused the deaths of children in Madhya Pradesh?

Tragically, 26 children in Madhya Pradesh died due to kidney failure linked to contaminated cough syrups containing high levels of Diethylene Glycol.

What action is being taken against cough syrup manufacturers?

Over 700 manufacturers are under intense audit, with some facing criminal action, license cancellations, and arrests due to GMP violations and contamination.

Are new testing rules in place for cough syrups?

Yes, new regulations mandate testing for Diethylene Glycol (DEG) and Ethylene Glycol (EG) in oral liquids at the finished product stage.

Home / Health / 700+ Syrup Makers Audited After Child Deaths

700+ Syrup Makers Audited After Child Deaths

2 Dec, 2025

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Summary

Over 700 cough syrup manufacturers face intense audits.
Contaminated syrup linked to 26 child deaths in Madhya Pradesh.
Diethylene glycol contamination found at dangerously high levels.

A significant crackdown is underway, with over 700 cough syrup manufacturers facing intense audits following a series of tragic child deaths in Madhya Pradesh. The incidents, which claimed the lives of 26 children, were linked to kidney failure attributed to contaminated cough syrups.

Investigations pinpointed Diethylene Glycol (DEG) as the harmful contaminant, found at levels drastically exceeding permissible limits in at least one product. This alarming discovery prompted the Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission to mandate DEG and Ethylene Glycol testing for all finished oral liquid formulations before market release.

Authorities have initiated criminal action against the implicated manufacturer, including the cancellation of their license and arrests. Furthermore, advisories have been issued for rational use of pediatric cough syrups and heightened vigilance against substandard drugs nationwide.

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