Punjab Imposes Urgent Ban on Coldrif Syrup After Fatal Incident
CHANDIGARH : The Punjab government has banned the sale, distribution, and use of Coldrif cough syrup across the state following the death of 16 children in Madhya Pradesh. Preliminary investigations linked the deaths to the consumption of the contaminated syrup, which was later declared “Not of Standard Quality” by health authorities.
A test report from the Drugs Testing Laboratory in Madhya Pradesh, dated October 4, 2025, revealed that Coldrif—a combination of paracetamol, phenylephrine hydrochloride, and chlorpheniramine maleate—contained a dangerously high concentration of diethylene glycol (46.28% w/v). The toxic industrial solvent, commonly used in brake fluid and lubricants, is not meant for human consumption and has caused mass poisoning incidents in the past.
Laboratory Findings Trigger Statewide Action
The Punjab Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) confirmed that Coldrif, Batch No. SR-13 (Mfg. May 2025, Exp. April 2027), was manufactured by Sresan Pharmaceutical Manufacturer, located in Tamil Nadu’s Kanchipuram district. The government declared the syrup unsafe for human consumption, citing the test results and tragic deaths reported from Chhindwara district, Madhya Pradesh.
In a formal notification, the health department directed all retailers, distributors, hospitals, and registered medical practitioners to immediately stop the sale and use of Coldrif. They must also report any existing stock to the FDA, Punjab.
“Strict legal action will be taken against anyone found stocking or selling the banned syrup,” stated the joint commissioner (drugs), FDA Punjab.
The move is aimed at preventing similar casualties in the state and ensuring public safety amid growing concerns about pharmaceutical quality control in India.
Chemists’ Association Supports Government’s Move
Punjab Chemists’ Association general secretary G.S. Chawla confirmed that members have been informed about the ban. He, however, noted that Coldrif might not have been widely available in Punjab.
“The syrup was manufactured in Tamil Nadu, and it is unlikely that it had reached Punjab’s market. Still, we have instructed all chemists to check their stocks and report any presence of the product,” Chawla said.
The association has extended full cooperation to the state authorities to ensure prompt removal of the banned product from shelves.
Why Diethylene Glycol Is Highly Dangerous
Diethylene glycol (DEG) is a colorless, odorless toxic compound used in industrial processes such as manufacturing antifreeze, brake fluids, and adhesives. However, its accidental or deliberate inclusion in pharmaceutical formulations can have deadly consequences. Even small doses can damage the kidneys, liver, and nervous system, leading to multiple organ failure or death.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), DEG contamination in syrups has caused several fatal incidents globally. The WHO has repeatedly urged countries to tighten manufacturing standards and ensure strict testing of liquid medicines to prevent such tragedies.
Past Tragedies Linked to Contaminated Cough Syrups
India has witnessed multiple DEG-related tragedies in recent years. In 2020, 17 children died in Jammu after consuming a contaminated cough syrup. In 2022, 66 children lost their lives in The Gambia, and several similar cases were reported in Uttar Pradesh the same year. Investigations revealed that the toxic solvent was used as a cheaper substitute for pharmaceutical-grade glycerin during drug formulation.
These incidents have prompted the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) and state authorities to intensify inspections of pharmaceutical manufacturing facilities. Despite repeated warnings, instances of substandard or adulterated medicines continue to emerge, raising serious concerns about drug safety compliance.
Punjab’s Proactive Health Surveillance
The Punjab government’s swift response reflects an increasing focus on pharmaceutical vigilance and consumer protection. Officials have instructed all district health officers to monitor local chemists and ensure compliance with the ban. Awareness campaigns are also being planned to educate healthcare workers and the public about the risks of counterfeit or contaminated medicines.
Health experts have called for stronger inter-state coordination and stricter quality audits to prevent such occurrences. They also recommend harsher penalties for manufacturers found guilty of endangering lives through negligence or malpractice.