A tragic incident has shaken India as 21 children reportedly died after consuming toxic cough syrup in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan. The deaths, which occurred mainly in Chhindwara district (MP) and Sikar and Bharatpur districts (Rajasthan), have sparked nationwide outrage and prompted a high-level investigation into the safety of pediatric medicines.
What Happened
The affected children, mostly under the age of five, were given a cough syrup called “Coldrif”, reportedly manufactured by Sresan Pharmaceuticals in Tamil Nadu. Soon after consuming the syrup, children developed symptoms such as vomiting, fever, and kidney failure, which are consistent with diethylene glycol (DEG) poisoning — a highly toxic industrial chemical used in antifreeze and not meant for human consumption.
In Madhya Pradesh, at least nine children died, while Rajasthan reported two confirmed deaths and several hospitalizations. Unofficial tallies suggest that the total may be over 20 across both states.
Suspected Cause: Diethylene Glycol (DEG) Contamination
Laboratory investigations have pointed to diethylene glycol contamination in the cough syrup samples. According to a report by the Tamil Nadu Food and Drug Administration (FDA), samples from the manufacturer contained 48.6% w/v of DEG, far exceeding permissible limits. DEG is known to cause severe kidney damage, metabolic acidosis, and neurological issues, especially in children.
The toxic chemical may have been introduced during manufacturing due to contaminated raw materials or improper quality control, raising serious questions about pharmaceutical oversight in India.
Government and Regulatory Action
In response to the growing crisis, both Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan governments have banned the sale and distribution of the suspected cough syrup.
The Tamil Nadu FDA has halted production of Coldrif, while the Union Health Ministry has ordered a nationwide probe.
Additionally:
- Rajasthan suspended its State Drug Controller and halted the distribution of Kaysons Pharma medicines under its free drug scheme.
- A Special Investigation Team (SIT) and expert panels were formed to test all related samples, including water and other drugs supplied to the affected areas.
- The MP Health Minister has vowed strict action, stating, “Those found guilty will not be spared.”
Conflicting Lab Reports and Ongoing Investigation
Interestingly, while some tests confirmed the presence of DEG, others did not find any toxic contamination. The Health Ministry has clarified that investigations are ongoing and that not all deaths are conclusively linked to the syrup. In a few cases, children also tested positive for leptospirosis, a bacterial infection that can mimic poisoning symptoms.
Experts caution against premature conclusions until all sample batches are analyzed.
Public Health Advisory
The Union Health Ministry has issued a public reminder that cough and cold syrups should not be given to children under two years of age unless prescribed by a qualified pediatrician. Parents have been urged to avoid over-the-counter syrups, especially unverified brands or products distributed without batch labels.
Doctors across India are also calling for stricter pharmaceutical regulations, mandatory batch testing, and real-time quality monitoring of pediatric drugs to prevent similar tragedies.
Past Similar Incidents
This is not the first time India has witnessed deaths linked to toxic cough syrups. In previous years, DEG contamination caused multiple fatalities in The Gambia, Uzbekistan, and Jammu, all involving locally made syrups. The current case once again highlights the urgent need for stronger drug manufacturing standards and global quality compliance.
Conclusion
The 21 children dead from toxic cough syrup in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan tragedy underscores the dangers of poor pharmaceutical oversight and lax safety checks. As investigations continue, families await justice and assurance that such an incident will never happen again.
Until then, parents are advised to consult doctors before giving any medication to children and to report suspicious drug reactions immediately to local health authorities.
FAQs
1. Which cough syrup caused the deaths in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan?
The syrup suspected is “Coldrif”, manufactured by Sresan Pharmaceuticals in Tamil Nadu.
2. What chemical caused the poisoning?
The main culprit is believed to be Diethylene Glycol (DEG), a toxic chemical not suitable for human use.
3. How many children have died so far?
As of early October 2025, at least 21 children have reportedly died across both states.
4. What actions have governments taken?
Sales have been banned, officials suspended, and manufacturing halted pending a full investigation.
5. How can parents protect their children?
Avoid over-the-counter cough syrups, always check labels, and use medicines only prescribed by certified doctors.
