The Coldrif cough syrup has become a major cause for alarm across India. The consumption of the syrup has led to the deaths of at least 11 children in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh; however, other reports indicate a possible death toll of 12. Following these tragic events, Madhya Pradesh and Tamil Nadu have issued a complete ban on the medication. The Union Health Ministry has also initiated testing of the syrup samples, which showed high levels of diethylene glycol (DEG), a toxic substance.
The syrup is manufactured by Shreeson Pharma Private Limited in Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu. According to the Tamil Nadu Drug Control Department, a sample from batch number SR-13 showed a 48.6% presence of DEG, which has been linked to kidney failure and fatalities. Most of the deaths occurred in the Chhindwara district of Madhya Pradesh, where the syrup was administered to children to alleviate cough symptoms. In response, the Union Health Ministry has launched inspections across 19 drug units situated in six different states.
The Chhattisgarh Health Department has issued a statement confirming that no medications from Shreeson Pharma are available in the state’s supply chain. Despite this assurance, authorities have decided to implement a total ban on Coldrif syrup to prevent confusion and speculation. The department is actively monitoring market activities and has mandated that all drug vendors cease the sale of Shreeson Pharma products.
Local pharmaceutical representative, Ashwani Vig, has confirmed the absence of Coldrif supply chains or storage facilities within Chhattisgarh. Nevertheless, public anxiety has increased after images of the syrup were circulated on social media platforms following the incidents in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan. The Health Department is urging parents to avoid administering cough syrups to children without medical consultation, and it encourages the immediate reporting of any suspected medications.