The World Health Organization (WHO) has identified three adulterated medicines manufactured in India, including the most widely reported Coldrif cough syrup. The syrup was manufactured by Srisan Pharmaceuticals, a company based in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. The case came to light just weeks after the deaths of several children in Madhya Pradesh, sparking nationwide concern.
A WHO investigation found that Coldrif syrup contained a toxic chemical, diethylene glycol (DEG), in very high concentrations. DEG is a chemical that is extremely harmful to the body. It can severely affect the kidneys and liver and can be fatal for children. The concentration of this chemical in Coldrif syrup was found to be over 48 percent, while the safe limit should be only 0.1 percent.
In addition to Coldrif, two other syrups are also included in the WHO warning: Respifresh TR from Rednex Pharmaceuticals and Relife from Shape Pharma. The WHO has urged all countries to immediately report these syrups if they are found in any country, so that timely action can be taken.
Following an investigation into Coldrif syrup, the government immediately revoked Srisan Pharmaceuticals’ license to manufacture the drug. The company’s owner, G. Ranganathan, was also arrested. Following this, a thorough investigation has been launched at all pharmaceutical companies’ factories in Tamil Nadu to determine if any other quality issues were being compromised.
Acting on the deaths of children in Madhya Pradesh, the central government issued an advisory to all states and union territories. This advisory states that cough syrups should not be given to children under two years of age. Furthermore, such syrups should be given to children under five only when absolutely necessary. The government has warned doctors and pharmacies to prescribe and sell medicines for children with extreme caution.
Health experts say this incident exposes a major flaw in the country’s pharmaceutical companies’ oversight system. They believe it’s time to strictly regulate the drug manufacturing process in India and rigorously test every batch.
