14 Children Die in India After Taking Toxic Cough Syrup
At least 14 young ones, all under the age of five, have tragically passed away in Madhya Pradesh, India, after consuming toxic cough syrup. The Indian Medical Association (IMA) has condemned the incident and blamed manufacturers and regulatory authorities for the tragedy.
The children died of kidney failure due to diethylene glycol, a toxic substance found in the cough syrup Coldrif. The syrup, manufactured by Shreesan Pharmaceuticals in Tamil Nadu, contained the toxin at nearly 500 times the safe limit. Officials warn that some manufacturers may use cheaper, industrial-grade toxins as substitutes for pharmaceutical-grade ingredients.
The IMA has criticized the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) and the Madhya Pradesh FDA for failing to monitor toxic substances in the syrup. The case has reignited calls for stricter drug regulation and accountability in India's pharmaceutical sector. Dr. Praveen Soni, who prescribed the syrup, has been arrested, sparking nationwide outrage.
The tragic deaths of these young ones have highlighted the urgent need for improved drug regulation and quality control in India. The use of toxic substitutes in pharmaceuticals must be prevented to ensure the safety of patients, particularly vulnerable children.
