Why has Maharashtra banned Coldrif Syrup following children's deaths in MP and Rajasthan?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
In a significant public health measure, the Maharashtra FDA has halted Coldrif Syrup sales, linking it to child fatalities in MP and Rajasthan. This urgent action raises crucial questions about drug safety and regulatory oversight. Find out more about the implications of this decision.
Key Takeaways
- Maharashtra FDA has banned Coldrif Syrup due to safety concerns.
- Batch No SR-13 is contaminated with a toxic substance.
- Immediate reporting of possession is encouraged.
- The public is urged to exercise caution with pharmaceuticals.
- Collaboration with Tamil Nadu authorities is ongoing.
Mumbai, Oct 6 (NationPress) The Maharashtra Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) has mandated an immediate cessation of the sale, distribution, and usage of Coldrif Syrup throughout the state, attributing this decision to toxic contamination associated with the unfortunate fatalities of children in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan.
The State Drug Controller, Dr. Gahane, released a statement late Sunday night, instructing all license holders and the general public to promptly halt any sales of Coldrif Syrup (Phenylephrine Hydrochloride, Chlorpheniramine Maleate Syrup), Batch No SR-13, produced by Sresan Pharma from Kancheepuram District in Tamil Nadu. The implicated batch, manufactured in May 2025 and set to expire in April 2027, is reportedly tainted with Diethylene Glycol (DEG), a hazardous compound, according to the statement.
“Consequently, all licensees and the public are hereby directed to cease any sale, distribution, or use of Coldrif Syrup, Batch No. SR-13, if it is in their possession, and to promptly report it to the local Drugs Control Authorities,” Gahane stated.
The public can report possession of the syrup directly to the FDA via the toll-free number 1800222365, mobile number 9892832289, or email at jchq.fda-mah@nic.in, as noted in the FDA's announcement.
“Maharashtra FDA officials are collaborating with the Drug Control Authorities in Tamil Nadu, where the manufacturer is based, to trace the distribution of the impacted batch within Maharashtra. All Drugs Inspectors and Assistant Commissioners have been instructed to alert retailers, wholesalers, and hospitals to immediately freeze any existing stocks,” the statement specified.
The state FDA has indicated that it is taking appropriate actions and has urged the public to remain vigilant in order to avert any additional risk to life.
This action by the Maharashtra FDA is in line with a previous advisory issued by the Centre, which on Sunday encouraged states and Union Territories to promote responsible use of cough syrups, particularly in children, noting that many coughs resolve on their own.
The Centre has urged states and UTs to enhance surveillance, ensure prompt reporting from all healthcare facilities, widely disseminate the IDSP-IHIP community reporting tool, and bolster inter-state cooperation for timely reporting and collective action.
Furthermore, the Centre stressed the importance of strict adherence to the Revised Schedule by all drug manufacturers and called upon states and UTs to perform a comprehensive identification of non-compliant units and take stringent measures against them.
Point of View
My perspective is that the swift action taken by the Maharashtra FDA showcases a commitment to public health and safety. It underscores the need for stringent monitoring of pharmaceuticals, especially those intended for children, and reflects a proactive approach to prevent further tragedies.
NationPress
06/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What led to the ban of Coldrif Syrup in Maharashtra?
The Maharashtra FDA banned Coldrif Syrup due to its toxic contamination linked to the deaths of children in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan.
How can the public report possession of Coldrif Syrup?
The public can report possession of Coldrif Syrup to the FDA via the toll-free number 1800222365, mobile number 9892832289, or email jchq.fda-mah@nic.in.
What are the potential dangers of Diethylene Glycol (DEG)?
Diethylene Glycol (DEG) is a toxic substance that can cause severe health issues, including kidney failure and death, particularly in children.
What actions is the Maharashtra FDA taking in response to this issue?
The Maharashtra FDA is working with Tamil Nadu's Drug Control Authorities to track the distribution of the affected batch and has instructed all relevant parties to freeze any existing stocks.
What is the Centre's stance on cough syrup usage?
The Centre has advised states and UTs to ensure rational use of cough syrups, particularly among children, and to enhance surveillance and reporting.
