Background: The DEG Concern and NSQ Flags
In a developing safety alert that underscores the ongoing scrutiny of over‑the‑counter cough syrups, authorities in Telangana flagged Relife as a product of concern. An alert from Madhya Pradesh’s drug testing laboratory indicated the syrup was adulterated with diethylene glycol (DEG) — a toxic industrial chemical known to cause severe health issues. Although the MP lab found DEG in a separate batch of Coldrif cough syrup, Relife emerged in Telangana’s annual network of quality checks as one of four products labeled as not of standard quality (NSQ) in early 2025 inspections.
What the DCA Found in Relife
The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), during routine monthly inspections in Telangana, discovered a labeling lapse for Relife: the exact or common name of the color additive used in the medicine was not disclosed. Importantly, the inspection did not detect DEG in the Relife sample tested in Telangana. The omission is not a minor oversight — labeling transparency is critical for diagnosing potential allergic reactions and for enabling doctors and patients to avoid harmful ingredients. A senior drug inspector, Telangana DCA, described it as a serious lapse that can undermine patient safety, especially for children who are particularly vulnerable to additives.
Immediate Actions Taken
Following the NSQ designation and DEG concerns elsewhere, manufacturers were instructed to recall the NSQ batch of Relife. Field teams were deployed to wholesalers and retailers to withdraw the batch promptly. Telangana authorities stated Relife is no longer in circulation within the state as a precautionary measure while further checks continue. This responsive approach reflects a standard practice when a drug is identified as NSQ — safeguarding the public by removing suspect products from the supply chain.
Other NSQ Packages and Labeling Shortcomings
Beyond Relife, Telangana flagged three other cough syrups (Ambrodil, Mucolite, and an Ambroxol Hydrochloride syrup) for various quality issues. One product failed to meet composition standards, while two were mislabelled or marketed without essential information. The shared thread across these cases is incomplete labeling and dosage data, which can lead to dosing errors, especially in pediatric populations.
Specifically, Ambroxol Hydrochloride and related syrups were criticized for not listing the correct identity of the color additive used in the product. Dr. G. Srinivas, a senior pharmacologist, emphasized that labels must state the exact amount of active drug and the color additive to prevent misinterpretation and adverse reactions. In mislabeling cases (e.g., levosalbutamol pharmaceuticals like Mucolite, Ambrodil), authorities pointed out the absence of crucial information such as “levosalbutamol sulphate IP equivalent to levosalbutamol,” which is essential for correct dosing and safe administration, particularly for children and patients with respiratory conditions.
Broader Context: The DEG Crisis and Cross‑State Inspections
The DEG (or ethylene glycol) crisis has prompted state and national regulators to tighten quality controls. The deadly incidents in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan have spurred a crackdown on substandard syrups, with central and state agencies coordinating to trace and recall suspect batches. While the Telangana DCA confirmed no detected DEG in Relife locally, the department is maintaining vigilance and coordinating with other states to prevent contaminated products from reaching stores in Andhra Pradesh and beyond. Officials highlighted that DEG contamination typically originates at the manufacturing or distribution stage and can be driven by commercial incentives to cut costs.
What Consumers Should Know
For caregivers and patients, the episode reinforces a few practical steps: check packaging for complete labeling, including the exact color additive and the active ingredients with their IP equivalents; verify batch numbers and expiry dates; and purchase medicines from reputable suppliers with reliable cold-chain management. If a product is flagged NSQ or shows any labeling irregularities, consult a healthcare professional and avoid use. Public health teams are actively tracing and removing unsafe stock from shelves as part of a collaborative, nationwide attempt to protect vulnerable groups, especially children.
Current Status and Next Steps
Telangana officials indicate no current stock of the implicated Coldrif batch has been found in the state, with ongoing verification across supplier networks in Tamil Nadu, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Sikkim. Authorities emphasize ongoing vigilance, routine inspections, and rapid recall protocols to curb the availability of substandard medicines.
Follow updates from official drug control channels and local health departments for the latest guidance and recall notices.
