WHO Warns Against Toxic Cough Syrups After Child Deaths in India
Digital Desk
The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a urgent warning against three cough syrups made in India, stating the contaminated products can cause severe, life-threatening illness. This alert comes after the deaths of at least 23 children in the central state of Madhya Pradesh .
The syrups identified are specific batches of Coldrif, manufactured by Sresan Pharmaceutical; Respifresh TR, from Rednex Pharmaceuticals; and ReLife, from Shape Pharma . Tests conducted on the Coldrif syrup, identified as Batch No. SR-13, confirmed the presence of dangerous levels of diethylene glycol (DEG) . DEG is a toxic chemical commonly found in industrial solvents and is unfit for human consumption .
Authorities report that the children affected initially showed symptoms of cough and cold, which later progressed to renal (kidney) failure, leading to their deaths . Doctors confirmed the children suffered acute kidney failure and brain damage after consuming the syrup, which was found to contain nearly 49% DEG .
In response, Indian regulatory bodies have taken swift action. The Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) has confirmed that production has been immediately halted at the implicated manufacturing sites and their product authorizations have been suspended . The license for Sresan Pharmaceuticals, the maker of Coldrif, has been revoked and its facility has been sealed . The company's owner has been arrested, and a criminal case has been filed against him .
The WHO has stated that there is currently no evidence that the contaminated batches were illegally exported from India . However, the global health body is urging regulators in all countries to be vigilant and to immediately report if these products are found in their markets .