Tragic news has emerged concerning the safety of certain cough syrups manufactured in India. The World Health Organization (WHO) has identified three specific products as being ‘substandard’ and contaminated, following a concerning number of child deaths in Madhya Pradesh. The affected syrups are Coldrif, Respifresh TR, and ReLife.
Coldrif Under Scrutiny
Coldrif, produced by Sresan Pharmaceuticals in Tamil Nadu, has been directly linked to the deaths of approximately 22 children. Investigations by the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) revealed that samples of Coldrif contained a staggering 8.6% Diethylene Glycol (DEG), a toxic substance, which is vastly over the permissible limit of 0.1%. This alarming contamination is believed to have caused kidney failure and infections in the young victims.
In response to these findings, several Indian states have banned the syrup, and advisories have been issued cautioning against its use in children under two years old. Consequently, Sresan Pharmaceuticals has had its manufacturing license revoked, and its owner has been arrested.
Respifresh TR and ReLife Also Flagged
While not directly linked to the fatalities, Respifresh TR from Gujarat-based Rednex Pharmaceuticals and ReLife by Shape Pharma have also been flagged by the WHO for containing DEG above the permissible limits. Respifresh TR was found to have 1.342% DEG, and ReLife contained 0.616% DEG. As a result, both products have been recalled, and their production halted by the Indian government. Shape Pharma has also been instructed to cease production of all its medical products.
WHO’s Warning and Investigation
The CDSCO has informed the WHO about the deaths and confirmed that the contaminated medicines were not exported. The WHO’s advisory serves as a critical alert to healthcare providers and consumers about the potential dangers posed by these substandard pharmaceutical products.