Central Government Issues Advisory: Cough Syrup Not to Be Given to Children Below 2 Years of Age
In the wake of recent child deaths allegedly linked to cough syrup consumption, the Union Health Ministry has issued a nationwide advisory urging caution in prescribing and dispensing cough syrups for young children.
According to the advisory, cough and cold medicines should not be given to children below two years of age. For children under five, these medications are generally not recommended, and any use beyond that age should only be done after a thorough clinical evaluation, with strict adherence to prescribed dosage, short treatment duration, and avoidance of multiple drug combinations.
Centre Issues Advisory on Safe Use of Cough Syrups for Children Amid Death Reports
The Ministry highlighted that most acute cough and cold cases in children are self-limiting, meaning they often get better on their own without the need for medicines. It has therefore directed all State and Union Territory Health Departments, District Health Authorities, and medical institutions to implement and circulate this advisory across government hospitals, clinics, and dispensaries.
Investigation into Child Deaths in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan
The advisory follows reports from Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan, where several child deaths were initially linked to the use of allegedly contaminated cough syrups. Families of affected children reported that their children developed coughs and fevers, which later led to severe kidney complications after consuming the syrup.
A joint team comprising experts from the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), National Institute of Virology (NIV), and the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) visited the affected areas to investigate. Samples of various cough syrups were collected and tested in coordination with state authorities.
The results showed that none of the samples contained Diethylene Glycol (DEG) or Ethylene Glycol (EG) — substances known to cause serious kidney damage. Similarly, the Madhya Pradesh State Food and Drug Administration confirmed that the three tested samples did not contain these contaminants.
In the case of Rajasthan, where two child deaths were also reported, the Health Ministry clarified that the product in question did not contain Propylene Glycol, a compound that can potentially be contaminated with DEG or EG.
Ongoing Probe
Despite no contaminants being found, the Health Ministry said that investigations are still ongoing to determine the exact cause of the deaths. Officials are exploring all possible factors to ensure public safety and prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Meanwhile, Dr. Pawan Nandurkar, Head of Paediatrics at Chhindwara District Hospital in Madhya Pradesh, said that the cases have been linked to a specific brand of cough syrup called Coldrif, which has been under scrutiny.
The Ministry also urged healthcare professionals to educate parents about the safe use of medications and remind them to follow doctors’ prescriptions strictly, especially when treating young children.
