WHO Issues Alert on Contaminated Cough Syrups in India

WHO Issues Alert on Contaminated Cough Syrups in India

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has issued a serious alert regarding three oral cough syrups manufactured in India—Coldrif, Respifresh TR, and ReLife. This warning follows the tragic deaths of at least 25 children, primarily under the age of five, in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan, suspected to be linked to these contaminated products. The children reportedly suffered from kidney failure after consuming the syrups.

The alert, released on Monday, highlights the presence of diethylene glycol (DEG), a toxic substance, in these syrups. The Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) of India confirmed the contamination, stating that Coldrif contained 48.6% DEG, while Respifresh TR and ReLife had 1.3% and 0.6% DEG, respectively. The permissible limit for DEG in such products is only 0.1% due to its harmful effects on health.

In response to these findings, state authorities have suspended the production licenses of the involved manufacturers—Sresan Pharmaceutical, Rednex Pharmaceuticals, and Shape Pharma—and initiated recalls of the affected batches. The CDSCO has assured WHO that none of the contaminated syrups have been exported, and there is no evidence of illegal export activities.

WHO has urged national regulatory authorities worldwide to remain vigilant and report any detection of these syrups. The organization emphasized the need for increased surveillance, particularly in informal and unregulated markets where such products may circulate undetected. The alert warns that these contaminated syrups pose significant health risks, especially to children, and can lead to severe health issues, including abdominal pain, vomiting, and acute kidney injury.

Healthcare professionals are advised to report any adverse effects related to these products to their national regulatory authorities. WHO has also recommended that anyone in possession of these syrups should refrain from using them and seek immediate medical attention if they experience any negative health effects after consumption. The global health body continues to work with regulators to enhance testing for DEG contamination in pharmaceutical products, particularly in low-resource settings.