India's Health Ministry Responds to Child Deaths from Contaminated Cough Syrup: Urgent Regulatory Actions and Safety Measures

Oct 05, 2025 11:15 pm CST

Following the deaths of 14 children in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan linked to contaminated cough syrup, India's Health Ministry has implemented emergency measures to enhance pharmaceutical oversight. The tainted Coldrif cough syrup contained diethylene glycol, prompting stricter enforcement of manufacturing standards, rational prescription practices for pediatric medications, and improved surveillance systems. Health authorities are warning of criminal negligence in pharmaceutical production while emphasizing that most childhood coughs don't require medication.