Cough Syrup Controversy: Can It Lead to Deaths? What We Should Know

In early September, some unexplained child deaths were reported in a small town in Madhya Pradesh. Around 19 children between the ages of one and six lost their lives, which left health authorities in a deep shock. Every possible cause was investigated, from water contamination to mosquito outbreak, but it was later discovered that the cause of the deaths was a common cough syrup that all these kids had taken. Weeks later, the lab test found that the cough syrup contained 48.6% diethylene glycol, a toxic industrial solvent that is not permissible to be used in medicines. The innocent kids suffered kidney failure after taking this cough syrup, a poisonous alcohol.

Later, two child deaths were also reported from Rajasthan after allegedly consuming a local cough syrup that had dextromethorphan, which is lethal for kids.

The Chronology

Let us understand the timeline of the events that occurred:

Initial reports of illness and deaths

In late August-September 2025, children below five in Chhindwara and Betul districts of Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan began falling critically ill and dying after consuming a cough syrup known as Coldrif. The reported symptoms were vomiting and inability to urinate. The diagnosis found that the kids suffered kidney failure.

Also Read: WHO Issues Global Alert After Cough Syrup Deaths in India, Here's What We Know

Detection of contamination in syrups

Lab tests revealed that Coldrif produced by Sresan Pharmaceuticals in Tamil Nadu contained diethylene glycol (DEG) exceeding the permissible limits. While the legal limit is 0.1%, the syrup contained 48.6% of DEG.

This pushed other cough syrups under the scanner too, and two of them, namely Respifresh TR and ReLife, also tested positive for DEG contamination, though at lower levels as compared to Coldrif. Click here to read a PMC study that shows ill effects of diethylene glycol contamination in children.

Official reactions and bans

All these three syrups were then banned, and the manufacturing companies were ordered to cease the production of these syrups.
The Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan state governments removed these syrups and ordered investigations.

Also Read: Over 100 Indian Cough Syrups Contaminated with Deadly Toxins: Try Natural Alternatives For Sore Throat, Cough

Arrests and legal steps

G. Ranganathan, the owner of Sresan Pharmaceuticals, which produced Coldrif, was arrested. Licensing and supply chains involved in distributing Coldrif were scrutinised. Medical authorities in several other states also banned these syrups and got the stock seized to prevent further distribution.

Regulatory scrutiny and lapses exposed

In early October, the Drugs Controller General of India admitted that several factories had not been testing every batch of raw materials or final products, which is a violation of Indian drug laws. The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) issued advisories directing all states for a strict inspection of cough syrup manufacturers.

Global alert

In light of these incidents, the World Health Organization (WHO) issued a global alert about the three substandard syrups (Coldrif, Respifresh TR, and ReLife) after confirming high levels of DEG contamination. The US Food and Drug Administration(FDA) advisory emphasised that these syrups were not exported, limiting direct impact overseas.

Rising public concern and ongoing investigation

The death toll rose to around 20 children, with several more hospitalised. Investigations expanded to trace supply chains, storage practices, labelling, and other regulatory compliance. Several licence cancellations and seizures of stock also took place.

Doctor Speaks: Opt for Safer Cough Syrup Alternatives for Kids

Dr Aakashneel Bhattacharya, Consultant – Infectious Diseases at Paras Health, Gurugram, “This situation has highlighted some serious loopholes in the quality control, regulatory and manufacturing oversight. As a doctor, I would advise considering safer and non-toxic alternatives to manage your cough and cold symptoms. This eliminates the potential risk of consuming unregulated syrups.”

Here are some suggestions by Dr Bhattacharya:

• For nasal congestion, take saline nasal drops. These are safe and effective remedies of cold for kids and young children.
• Steam inhalation, under adult supervision, works great for soothing irritated airways due to a cold.
• Ensure adequate fluid consumption, including warm water, herbal teas and soups, which helps in faster recovery from cold and cough.

Summing up, Dr Bhattacharya urges parents to avoid self-medicating children with over-the-counter medicines. It is always advisable to consult a certified medical practitioner to avert the risks.