18 Children Dead: Government Bans 'Coldrif' Cough Syrup After DEG Poisoning
A tragic incident has unfolded in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan, where at least 18 children have lost their lives after consuming contaminated cough syrups. The central government has swung into action, suspending manufacturing licenses and banning sales of the offending product, 'Coldrif', manufactured by Chennai-based Sresan Pharmaceuticals. A high-level meeting was held to address this grave issue.
The crisis began when children in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan started falling ill and dying after taking 'Coldrif' cough syrup. A central team of experts was promptly dispatched to investigate the cases and deaths, collecting samples for testing. Preliminary findings ruled out common infectious diseases, except for one positive case of Leptospirrosis. However, the real culprit was discovered in the form of toxic levels of diethylene glycol (DEG) in 'Coldrif' syrup.
Out of 10 samples analyzed, nine met the quality standards. But one sample of 'Coldrif' contained DEG beyond the permissible limit, leading to the ban on its sale in Madhya Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. The Tamil Nadu FDA has also taken regulatory action against the manufacturing unit in Kancheepuram. The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) has recommended the cancellation of the manufacturing license and initiated criminal proceedings. Meanwhile, Dr. Rajiv Bahl advised that children should not be prescribed cough syrups or any combination of drugs to prevent side effects. The Union Health Ministry held a high-level meeting to discuss compliance with drug quality standards, rational use of cough syrup for children, and regulation of retail pharmacies. In response to this crisis, the Centre has initiated Risk-Based Inspections across 19 manufacturing units in six states to strengthen quality assurance mechanisms.
The tragic deaths of these children have highlighted the urgent need for stringent quality control measures in the pharmaceutical industry. The government's swift action in suspending licenses and initiating inspections is a step in the right direction. However, it is crucial to ensure that such incidents do not recur, and that the safety and well-being of consumers, especially children, remains a top priority.
