11 children’s deaths: Drug watchdog urges strict action against Coldrif

**11 Children’s Deaths: Drug Watchdog Urges Strict Action Against Coldrif**

*By Snehil Singh | Oct 05, 2025, 11:11 AM*

The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) is set to take stringent action against the manufacturers of Coldrif syrup following the tragic deaths of 11 children, allegedly caused by contaminated cough syrups.

According to reports from ANI, the CDSCO has directed the Tamil Nadu Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to initiate strict measures under serious offense provisions to tackle this grave issue.

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**Union Health Secretary to Convene National Conference**

In response to the crisis, the Union Health Secretary will conduct a video conference with health officials from all states and Union Territories. The discussion will focus on the rational use of cough syrups and enforcing drug quality standards nationwide.

This move follows the deaths of 11 children in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan, which have been linked to contaminated cough syrups.

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**Ongoing Investigations and Inspections**

The CDSCO has launched risk-based inspections targeting drug manufacturing units across six states: Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, Madhya Pradesh, and Maharashtra.

Authorities have collected 19 samples from these regions for comprehensive testing. A multidisciplinary team of experts is currently analyzing the samples to uncover the cause behind the fatalities in Chhindwara, Madhya Pradesh.

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**Sample Analysis Results**

Earlier this week, the CDSCO confirmed that six of its tested samples, along with three from the Madhya Pradesh Food and Drugs Administration, were free from toxic compounds such as Diethylene Glycol (DEG) and Ethylene Glycol (EG). These chemicals are notorious for causing severe kidney damage.

However, officials clarified that these tested samples did not include the two cough syrups under suspicion, including Coldrif.

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**Regional Actions Against Coldrif Syrup**

In light of the findings, several states have taken immediate action against Coldrif syrup. Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Madhya Pradesh have imposed bans on its sale. Meanwhile, Telangana has issued a public alert advising citizens to discontinue use of the product.

These measures are part of a larger effort to ensure drug safety and quality across India, following the heartbreaking loss of young lives allegedly linked to contaminated cough syrups.

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*Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.*
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/india/drug-watchdog-urges-strict-action-against-coldrif-makers-report/story