Punjab Imposes Coldrif Cough Syrup Ban
Following the tragic deaths of 14 children in Madhya Pradesh, the Punjab government has enforced a strict Coldrif cough syrup ban. The state’s Food and Drugs Administration (Drugs Wing) declared that the syrup, manufactured by Shreesan Pharmaceutical in Chhindwara, is “not of standard quality,” according to Madhya Pradesh’s Drugs Testing Laboratory.
The official order stated that the product is linked to the deaths in Chhindwara district. Punjab has immediately prohibited the sale, distribution, and use of Coldrif syrup, prioritizing public safety and children’s welfare. The first paragraph ends with Coldrif cough syrup ban.
Other States Take Action
Uttar Pradesh also followed with a Coldrif cough syrup ban, instructing drug inspectors to collect samples from government and private institutions. Import and export of the syrup have been suspended until further notice.
Kerala formed a committee to review pediatric cough syrups. Health Minister Veena George confirmed the banned syrup will not be supplied in government hospitals and pharmacies are instructed not to sell pediatric drugs without prescriptions.
Other Precautions and Warnings
Tamil Nadu, Uttarakhand, Rajasthan, and Telangana issued advisories against the syrup. Meanwhile, Madhya Pradesh authorities detected excessive diethylene glycol (DEG) in ReLife (0.616%) and Respifresh TR (1.342%) cough syrups, exceeding the safe limit of 0.1%. Sale and distribution of these syrups have been halted, and products are being seized.
FAQs
Q1: Why did Punjab impose the Coldrif cough syrup ban?
A: The Coldrif cough syrup ban was enforced after 14 children died in Madhya Pradesh due to unsafe chemical levels.
Q2: Which states have banned Coldrif cough syrup?
A: Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Rajasthan, Uttarakhand, and Telangana have implemented the Coldrif cough syrup ban.
Q3: What harmful substance was found in the syrup?
A: Authorities detected excessive diethylene glycol (DEG), a toxic compound exceeding the permissible limit.
Q4: Has action been taken against the manufacturer?
A: Yes, Shreesan Pharmaceutical’s products are being seized, and production and sale are halted.
