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The WHO and the Indian Ministry of Health have strongly advised all parents and guardians to avoid unnecessary use of cough and cold medications in children. They have advised against giving any cough syrup to children without a doctor’s advice.
WHO reveals why cough syrup deaths occurred
New Delhi: In India, 17 children under the age of 5 have died after consuming cough syrup. The cause of death was the toxic chemical diethylene glycol (DEG) found in the cough syrup, which was approximately 500 times higher than the standard limit. This serious incident has sparked concern among the medical community and the general public. The World Health Organization (WHO) has provided detailed information on the matter, highlighting the causes and prevention.
Diethylene glycol was first detected in a cough syrup called Coldrif, which was immediately banned. Subsequent investigations found the same toxic substance in other cough syrups called Respifresh and Relife. WHO stated that these syrups were sold only in India, although some may also be imported unofficially. The source of the toxic substance is not yet fully known.
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The Department of Health has warned that diethylene glycol is a serious toxin that can cause kidney failure, neurological problems, and even death. Its effects are particularly deadly in children because their immune systems are weakened. Ingestion of this toxic substance often doesn't show immediate effects, leading to delayed treatment.
The WHO reported that numerous deficiencies have been found in the drug manufacturing and testing processes in India. Testing of every batch of medicine is mandatory by law, but recent inspections found this rule was not followed at some factories. Sresan Pharmaceutical's Coldrif syrup factory has been shut down, and police are investigating manslaughter. Syrups from Shape Pharma and Rednex Pharmaceuticals have also been found to be substandard, and their production and sale have been suspended.
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This incident is a major setback for India's pharmaceutical industry. India ranks third in the world in pharmaceutical production and exports generic drugs to many countries, including the United States. Approximately 40% of generic drugs used in the United States come from India, while India's share in African countries also reaches 90%. This incident has raised questions about India's pharmaceutical quality and safety standards.
The WHO and the Indian Ministry of Health have strongly advised all parents and guardians to avoid unnecessary use of cough and cold medications in children. They have advised against giving any cough syrup to children without a doctor's advice. Additionally, pharmaceutical companies have been instructed to ensure strict compliance with regulations to prevent such incidents in the future.
This tragic incident underscores the importance of drug safety in India, and the government and industry must work together to improve it.
