Centre Denies Cough Syrup Contamination While Tamil Nadu Detects Adulteration in Coldrif Batch
A conflict has emerged between Central and State health authorities regarding cough syrup safety. The Union Health Ministry stated that samples linked to child deaths in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan did not contain Diethylene Glycol (DEG) or Ethylene Glycol (EG). Conversely, Tamil Nadu's Drugs Control Department ordered a production halt for 'Coldrif' syrup after tests detected DEG adulteration. The Centre attributed some deaths to other causes like leptospirosis or improper home administration. An advisory has been issued cautioning against prescribing cough syrups to children under two years old and emphasizing the need for medical supervision.
Key Points
- The Union Health Ministry claims samples tested by the NIV and CDSCO did not show toxic contaminants like DEG or EG.
- Tamil Nadu's Government Drugs Testing Laboratory found a batch of Coldrif syrup to be 'not of standard quality' due to DEG presence.
- Health authorities have issued a show-cause notice to Sresan Pharmaceutical, the manufacturer of the suspected Coldrif batch.
- The government advises that cough in children is often self-limiting and warns against using such medications for children under two.
Exam Facts
- Diethylene Glycol (DEG) and Ethylene Glycol (EG) are toxic contaminants known to cause severe kidney injury.
- The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) and the National Institute of Virology (NIV) are the primary bodies involved in the central investigation.
- The Coldrif batch under scrutiny is SR-13, manufactured in Kancheepuram district, Tamil Nadu.
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