WHO Issues Global Alert On Contaminated Indian Syrups, Coldrif Found Highly Toxic | India News

The World Health Organization (WHO) has detected three contaminated syrups produced in India and warned health authorities worldwide to remain vigilant. The global agency called on countries to report immediately if any of these products are found in their markets.

The warning comes after a large number of children died recently in Madhya Pradesh due to consumption of adulterated cough syrup. Among the three syrups flagged by the WHO is Coldrif, which attracted national attention following the deaths.

According to the World Health Organization, the contaminated drugs include Coldrif from Sresan Pharmaceuticals, Respifresh TR from Rednex Pharmaceuticals and ReLife from Shape Pharma. Tests of these syrup samples revealed the presence of diethylene glycol (DEG), a toxic chemical known to cause severe poisoning, kidney failure, and even death when consumed.

The most alarming findings came from Coldrif, which is produced in Tamil Nadu. Laboratory analysis showed DEG levels exceeded 48 percent, well above the permissible limit of 0.1 percent. Health experts have warned that such high levels of pollution could be extremely dangerous, especially for children.

Following the statements, the Tamil Nadu government canceled the manufacturing license of Sresan Pharmaceuticals. The owner of the company, G. Ranganathan, was also arrested for alleged negligence in drug production. Authorities have ordered comprehensive inspection of other pharmaceutical manufacturing units across the state to ensure safety standards.

(Also Read: ‘Coldrif’ Cough Syrup Line: ED Intensifies Action, Searches Premises Linked to Sreesan Pharma)

The deaths in Madhya Pradesh led the Union Health Ministry to issue an advisory to all states and union territories. The recommendation warned doctors and chemists to be careful when prescribing cough syrup to children. It is also stated that such syrups should not be given to children under the age of two and are generally not recommended for those under the age of five.

Health officials said the incident was a stark reminder of the need for tighter quality control in the country’s pharmaceutical industry. They emphasized that stronger monitoring, regular inspections and tougher penalties are needed to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

(With IANS inputs).