The Union Health Ministry has advised all States and Union Territories to ensure the rational use of cough syrups, especially among children, citing that most coughs are self-limiting and do not need medication. The move follows recent reports of children’s deaths in Chhindwara, Madhya Pradesh, allegedly linked to contaminated cough syrups.

In a high-level meeting chaired by Union Health Secretary Punya Salila Srivastava, the Centre reviewed compliance with drug quality norms and emphasised strict adherence to the Revised Schedule M by all drug manufacturers. The Union Health Minister had earlier directed that this matter be urgently discussed with the States.

Authorities confirmed that risk-based inspections have begun at 19 drug manufacturing units across six states to identify quality lapses. States were also asked to boost surveillance, improve reporting from health facilities, and enhance outbreak response coordination.

A Central team found that a sample of the cough syrup Coldrif, consumed by affected children, contained toxic Diethylene Glycol (DEG) beyond permissible limits. The syrup was traced to a manufacturer in Kancheepuram, Tamil Nadu. Regulatory action has followed, including the cancellation of the company’s manufacturing license and the initiation of criminal proceedings.

Top officials from the Health Ministry, CDSCO, NCDC, and state health departments participated in the meeting.