A cough syrup known as Coldrif syrup (Batch No. SR-13), used to get rid of cold and cough symptoms, has now been banned in several states, including Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, and Maharashtra. The decision came after the death of 14 children in MP. During the investigation, it was found that the syrup contained a toxic industrial solvent that severely affects health. Scroll down to know what happened.
What Is Coldrif, And Why Was It Banned?
Coldrif is a paediatric cough syrup that has phenylephrine hydrochloride and chlorpheniramine maleate. This syrup is commonly used by children to relieve cough and cold symptoms. According to The Times of India, after consuming this cough syrup, 14 children died in Madhya Pradesh due to kidney failure. Following this shocking incident, many states banned the sale and ordered an investigation.
During the investigation, it came to notice that the syrup was contaminated with diethylene glycol (DEG). It is a toxic industrial solvent that can result in severe poisoning and organ failure. The contamination was found in samples manufactured by Sresan Pharma. It is a company based in Tamil Nadu’s Kancheepuram district. The batch in question was manufactured in May 2025 and was set to expire in April 2027.
Which States Banned Coldrif Syrup?
As per The Times of India reports, after the death of 14 children, the Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration and the Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh governments banned the consumption and selling of this syrup in the entire state. Authorities have also ordered all hospitals, pharmacies, and distributors to stop selling the product and submit existing stocks for testing. The FDA is also coordinating with Tamil Nadu’s drug control department to trace the product’s distribution.
The situation is critical, as the contaminated batch (Batch No. SR-13) was manufactured in Tamil Nadu’s Kancheepuram district and distributed across various Indian states. The ban imposed is expected to prevent further harm and ensure no more lives are lost due to toxic medicine contamination.
We hope the situation in these states gets under control soon, and no more children lose their lives.
Also Read: Maharashtra FDA Begins State-Wide Inspection Drive; Milk, Sweets, Dry Fruits & More Under Scrutiny
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Pro/ Comstock Images (Representative Image)