Drug authorities intensify checks on cough syrups after child deaths

District drug control authorities in Visakhapatnam are increasing inspections of cough syrups. This follows reports of child deaths in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan linked to the medicine Coldf.

In Marripalem, officials seized 5,000 banned Revicold syrups worth Rs. 4.5 lakh from Kirby Life Sciences. They sent 25 samples to the Central Drug Laboratory in Kolkata and four to Vijayawada. The tests will check for diethylene glycol (DEG), a toxic chemical. In Madhya Pradesh, DEG in seized syrups was 500 times above the safe limit.

Experts warn that giving cough medicine to children under three is extremely dangerous. Parents should not buy syrups directly from shops. They should also avoid giving them to children under five without a doctor’s prescription. If a medicine is prescribed, check the brand name, batch number, expiry date, and seal carefully.

The World Health Organization has flagged three substandard cough syrups in India—Coldif (Shresan Pharma), Respifresh TR (Rednex Pharma), and Relife (Shape Pharma). All three contain high levels of DEG.

Vijay Kumar, Assistant Director of the Drug Control Department, said inspections will continue. He asked the public to report sales of cough syrups without prescriptions at 9490153326. “Strict action will be taken against violators,” he said.

Dr. BS Chakravarthy, Head of Paediatrics at KGH, said most childhood coughs go away naturally. However, some syrup chemicals can cause vomiting, lethargy, and kidney problems within hours or days. KGH doctors are working closely with drug authorities to prevent further cases.