Overview: WHO’s alert on contaminated cough syrups in India
The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a warning identifying three cough syrups in India as potentially contaminated with toxic diethylene glycol (DEG). This advisory follows a tragic wave of child deaths in Madhya Pradesh earlier this year, where the syrups were linked to severe illnesses. WHO urged health authorities worldwide to report back if any of these products are detected in their markets.
Products named by WHO
According to the agency’s latest notice, the syrups implicated in India include:
- Coldrif from Sresan Pharmaceuticals (Tamil Nadu)
- Respifresh TR from Rednex Pharmaceuticals
- ReLife from Shape Pharma
These products were flagged after tests raised concerns about DEG, a chemical historically associated with mass poisoning incidents. WHO emphasized that the identified batches pose significant health risks and could cause life-threatening illness if consumed.
Context: Madhya Pradesh deaths and regulatory actions
In the Madhya Pradesh case, toxic DEG concentrations were reported to be far above permissible limits—well over 0.1% in some tests. The contaminated Coldrif cough syrup, manufactured by Sresan Pharmaceuticals, contributed to public health outrage and led to regulatory scrutiny. The company’s manufacturing license was revoked, and authorities arrested the founder. An inspection of other local facilities followed as a precautionary measure.
What authorities say
CDSCO, the IndianCentral drug regulator, has stated that none of the implicated syrups were exported from India, and foreign authorities—including the United States—confirmed that these products were not shipped to them. Still, the episode has underscored risks associated with pediatric cough medicines and the need for stringent quality controls across the supply chain.
Health guidance for caregivers and clinicians
Following the incident, the government issued advisories urging caution in prescribing cough syrups to young children. Current guidance generally advises against giving cough syrups to children under two years old and suggests avoiding use in children under five unless explicitly recommended by a healthcare professional.
Experts reiterate the importance of reporting adverse drug reactions, ensuring proper storage and handling, and sourcing medicines from reputable suppliers. Caregivers should consult physicians before administering any cough syrup to children and seek prompt medical attention if symptoms worsen or new concerns arise.
Looking ahead: safeguards and accountability
The episode has sparked renewed calls for stronger pharmacovigilance, more transparent manufacturing practices, and tighter oversight of pharmaceutical licenses. Authorities in India and abroad are coordinating to trace supply chains, revoke licenses where necessary, and prevent similar incidents. The WHO stresses global cooperation to identify any additional contaminated products and to communicate risks quickly to protect children and other vulnerable populations.
Conclusion
The warning from the WHO about three cough syrups in India—led by the Coldrif incident—highlights a critical public health imperative: ensure every medicine bound for infants and young children is safe and properly tested. While authorities take corrective steps, caregivers are urged to remain vigilant, seek professional medical advice, and report any suspicious medicines to the appropriate agencies.
