Chandigarh, Oct 7: The Punjab government has issued an immediate ban on the sale, distribution, and use of Coldrif cough syrup following the deaths of 14 children in Madhya Pradesh, allegedly linked to the contaminated medicine.
An order from the Food and Drugs Administration (FDA), Punjab, stated that the drug, batch number SR-13, manufactured by Sresan Pharmaceutical in Tamil Nadu, was declared “not of standard quality” by the government analyst and FDA, Madhya Pradesh. Tests revealed that the syrup contains Diethylene Glycol (46.28% w/v), a highly toxic substance harmful to health.
The FDA order directed all retailers, distributors, medical practitioners, hospitals, and healthcare institutions in Punjab to immediately stop purchasing, selling, or using the syrup. Authorities have also called for information on any existing stock of the drug within the state.
The deaths of children in Chhindwara district were reportedly caused by suspected renal failure linked to the syrup. The incident has triggered a national health alert, prompting suspensions of officials in Madhya Pradesh, arrests, confiscation of stock nationwide, and revisions to drug prescription guidelines in states including Kerala and Karnataka.
Punjab’s ban aims to prevent further tragedies and protect public health, emphasizing swift action against adulterated medicines. (Agencies)
