A nationwide health scare has arisen due to the Coldrif cough syrup, following reports of child fatalities. At least 11 children have died in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh after consuming the syrup, with some sources suggesting a higher death toll of 12. In response, the governments of Madhya Pradesh and Tamil Nadu have prohibited the sale and distribution of the syrup. The Union Health Ministry is conducting investigations, with initial tests indicating excessive levels of the toxic chemical diethylene glycol (DEG) in the syrup samples.
Shreeson Pharma Private Limited, based in Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu, manufactures the syrup. According to the Tamil Nadu Drug Control Department, the SR-13 batch contained 48.6% DEG, a substance known to cause kidney failure and death. Most of the reported deaths occurred in the Chhindwara district of Madhya Pradesh, where the syrup was given to children for cough relief. The Union Health Ministry has initiated inspections of 19 pharmaceutical units across six states as a precautionary measure.
The Chhattisgarh Health Department has announced that there is no supply of Shreeson Pharma products in the state. Despite this, a complete ban on Coldrif syrup will be implemented to address any potential confusion and rumors. The department is monitoring market activity and has directed pharmacies to cease all sales of the company’s products.
Local drug distributor Ashwani Vig verified that Coldrif has no supply chain or storage facilities within Chhattisgarh. In the wake of the Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan incidents, images of the syrup circulated on social media, creating widespread concern and prompting people to be cautious when purchasing medications. The Health Department is advising parents to avoid giving cough syrups to children without consulting a doctor and to report any suspicious medicines immediately.