THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The State Drugs Controller has issued strict instructions to medicine retailers in Kerala not to sell cough syrup to children below two years of age, even if there is a doctor’s prescription. For children above two years, a doctor’s prescription is mandatory. The circular was issued following central government directions after several child deaths linked to cough syrup use were reported in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan.

If cough syrup must be given to children between two and five years old, doctors must clearly specify the dosage and duration. Only medicines from approved manufacturers can be sold. The department also warned that strict action will be taken against those who sell medicines without prescriptions. For children under two, instead of medicine, parents are

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