Recent events in India have raised alarm over cough syrups that have been linked to the deaths of children. At least 17 children died in Madhya Pradesh after consuming a brand called Coldrif. ColDrif was found to have extremely high levels of diethylene glycol (DEG), a toxic chemical far above safe limit. Two other syrups — Respifresh TR and ReLife — were also found to be contaminated with DEG, though no deaths have been confirmed for those yet.

What are the reasons for this incident?

• Contamination: In this case, DEG is found in the syrup instead of more benign solvents/glycols. DEG is poisonous to kidneys.
• Lax regulation or quality control gaps: Some manufacturing units have not kept up with good manufacturing practices or have had lapses in testing raw materials / final product batches.
• Use of combination medications / over-the-counter use in young children which can lead to misuse or dosing that’s too high. Also, often parents/clinics use cough syrups for viral coughs or mild symptoms where non-drug measures may be sufficient.

How to stay safe?

Here is advice for parents to reduce risk and protect their children given the crisis:

Check what is in the syrup: Always check the batch number, expiry date, and manufacturer on any medicine packaging. Be aware of current advisories and banned batches. If a particular brand or batch has been flagged by health authorities or news media, avoid using it.

Age matters: Many advisories say: Don’t give cough syrup to children under 2 years unless necessary. For children up to 5 years, they use medications only under medical supervision and after evaluating benefits vs risks.

Use only when necessary: Many coughs are self-limiting (they resolve on their own) especially if caused by a viral infection. Rest, fluids, humid air, keeping children comfortable, etc., can do a lot. Don’t combine multiple cough/cold drugs unless specifically prescribed (like, avoid combo syrups with lots of different agents).

Always follow the prescription: Don’t buy or use cough syrup over the counter without a doctor’s advice, especially for younger children. Strictly follow dosage instructions — more isn’t better.

Watch for warning signs: If a child has taken a syrup (especially one from a questionable source), watch for early symptoms like:

• Child isn’t peeing much
• Swelling or puffiness
• Weakness, confusion, drowsiness
• Vomiting, abdominal pain
• Any signs of kidney problems or toxicity

If any of these appear, seek medical help immediately.

Know which syrups are banned / recalled: Keep up with official advisories from DGHS (India), state health departments, WHO, etc. If you find you have a bottle of a drug that has been recalled or banned, stop using it and return/dispose of it according to recommended methods.

Safe storage:

• Keep all medicines in original packaging.
• Store them in places out of reach of children.
• Don’t use syrups after expiry or if the seal is broken or looks tampered with.

If you think a child has been harmed by a cough syrup like took one from a suspect batch or with unusual symptoms:

• Stop giving the syrup immediately.
• Call a doctor or go to a hospital right away. Be ready to tell them: name of syrup, batch number, how much was given and when.
• Ask for tests for kidney function (creatinine, BUN) if advised.
• If possible, save the medicine bottle / packaging to show health professionals or regulatory authorities.
• Report the incident to local health authorities or the drug controller, this helps them trace and prevent harm to others.

Government authorities have banned the sale/distribution of the faulty batches and are investigating/drug manufacturing firms involved.  Cough syrup medicines, especially for young children (under ages 2–5), are being viewed with greater caution.

References:

1. www.Indiatoday.com
2. www.WHO.org
3. www.Timesofindia.com
4. www.Scroll.in
5. www.Thenewindianexpress.com
6. Image created using AI copilot 10-10-25