Himachal, UP Join States Banning Coldrif Cough Syrup After MP Deaths
New Delhi: Among various states cracking down on toxic cough syrups, the governments of Himachal Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh have now banned Coldrif cough syrup and launched a probe into its quality, safety, and distribution, following the deaths of nine children in Madhya Pradesh allegedly linked to the formulation.
The move comes after Tamil Nadu’s drug regulator found a batch of Coldrif, manufactured by Sresan Pharmaceutical, “not of standard quality” due to adulteration, prompting nationwide concern over potential contamination and lapses in manufacturing standards.
As per various media accounts, the fatalities were reported from Chhindwara district, where children suffered fever and kidney failure allegedly linked to the syrup.
The issue surfaced after the Tamil Nadu Directorate of Drugs Control tested Coldrif Syrup (Paracetamol, Phenylephrine Hydrochloride, and Chlorpheniramine) - Batch No. SR-13, manufactured by Sresan Pharmaceutical, Kancheepuram - and found it “not of standard quality” due to adulteration. Acting on this, Madhya Pradesh requested Himachal Pradesh to investigate Coldrif and Nexa DS, both suspected to have been supplied before the deaths.
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In Uttar Pradesh, the government banned the use, sale, import, and export of Coldrif manufactured by Shreesan Pharmaceutical. According to NewsOnAir report, Deputy CM and Health Minister Brajesh Pathak clarified that the state never procured the syrup for public health programs. Drug inspectors have been directed to collect samples for detailed testing, and circulation in all institutions is prohibited until further notice.
Himachal Pradesh also imposed a complete ban on Coldrif, instructing all retailers, hospitals, and medical practitioners not to sell or prescribe it. State Drug Controller Manish Kapoor stated that existing stocks must be reported immediately. Nexa DS, made by Aquanova Pharma in Baddi, was temporarily halted, but quality tests later cleared it, allowing shipments to Madhya Pradesh to resume. Risk-based inspections are underway across manufacturing units to ensure safety compliance.
Officials stated that the nine children in Chhindwara’s Parasia block fell ill after September 7 with fever and cold, followed by kidney complications that proved fatal despite treatment. CDSCO and state authorities are coordinating to trace contamination sources and strengthen quality control. Experts warn that diethylene glycol (DEG) or similar adulterants can cause acute kidney injury, liver damage, and metabolic acidosis in children, emphasizing strict GMP adherence and pharmacovigilance, reports Hindustan Times.
Further lab reports and investigations are awaited to determine the full extent of contamination and accountability.
