WHO Flags 3 Toxic Cough Syrups in India After Children’s Deaths
Coldrif, Respifresh TR, and ReLife among the syrups under global scrutiny
Weeks after the tragic deaths of several children in Madhya Pradesh, allegedly due to adulterated cough syrup, the World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a warning against three Indian-made syrups. The global health body has urged all countries to stay alert and report if any of these products are detected in their markets.
Coldrif Among Syrups Identified by WHO
The infamous Coldrif syrup, which sparked massive outrage following the deaths, has been named among the three contaminated products flagged by the WHO. The other two syrups are Respifresh TR (Rednex Pharmaceuticals) and ReLife (Shape Pharma).
WHO has warned that these syrups pose serious health risks, potentially causing life-threatening illness, and advised strict vigilance.
Toxic Ingredient Found 500 Times Above Safe Limit
According to a report by Reuters, the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) informed WHO that the syrups contained diethylene glycol (DEG) — a toxic chemical historically linked to mass poisoning incidents — in quantities nearly 500 times above the permissible limit.
The contaminated syrups were reportedly consumed by children under five years old, leading to the death of at least 22 children in Madhya Pradesh’s Parasia village (Chhindwara district).
Sresan Pharma Under Fire, License Revoked
The main culprit, Sresan Pharmaceuticals, based in Tamil Nadu, manufactured the Coldrif syrup. Following lab tests confirming high DEG levels, the company’s manufacturing license was revoked, and owner G. Ranganathan was arrested.
Authorities also launched a statewide inspection of other pharmaceutical companies in Tamil Nadu to prevent similar incidents.
India Assures WHO: No Exports of Toxic Syrups
The Indian health ministry clarified to WHO that none of the contaminated syrups were exported outside India. The United States also confirmed that the toxic medicines were not imported into their country.
Based on India’s response, the WHO is expected to issue a Global Medical Products Alert soon.
Government Issues Advisory on Cough Syrups for Children
In the aftermath of the tragedy, the Indian government has advised states and union territories to use caution while prescribing cough syrups to children. The circular emphasized that such syrups should not be given to children below two years of age, and are generally unsafe for those under five.
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