India has informed the World Health Organization (WHO) that three brands of oral cough syrups made in Tamil Nadu and Gujarat contained toxic levels of a chemical called diethylene glycol (DEG).

According to the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO), DEG contamination was confirmed on October 8 in at least three syrups that had been consumed by children in several cases. The affected medicines have now been withdrawn from the market, and the companies involved have been told to stop all production.

Which syrups were contaminated

The syrups found to contain DEG are:

  • Coldrif, made by Sresan Pharmaceuticals in Tamil Nadu

  • Respifresh TR, made by Rednex Pharmaceuticals in Gujarat

  • ReLife, produced by Shape Pharma Private Limited in Gujarat

Tests showed that Coldrif had the highest contamination level, 48.6% DEG. Respifresh TR had 1.34%, and ReLife had 0.616%, all above safe limits.

20 child deaths linked to contaminated syrups

The recall came after reports of 20 child deaths in Chhindwara district, Madhya Pradesh, where the contaminated syrups were believed to have been used. Many children showed symptoms like acute kidney failure and encephalitis.

The WHO contacted Indian authorities on October 1, after local media reports highlighted similar cases in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan.

The WHO asked India for details about the possible link between these deaths and the tainted syrups, and whether any of the products were exported abroad. Indian regulators assured WHO that the contaminated syrups were not exported to any other countries.

The manufacturers have been ordered to halt production completely, pending further investigation.

Although the WHO has not yet received full information on how the DEG contamination occurred, it warned of potential risks if contaminated products are circulated through unregulated channels.

What is diethylene glycol (DEG)?

DEG is a toxic industrial chemical often used in antifreeze and brake fluid. It is not meant for use in medicines. Even small amounts can cause severe poisoning, leading to kidney failure, brain damage, or death.

India has faced five major DEG poisoning incidents since 1972, resulting in multiple fatalities over the years.

Following these reports, the Health Ministry launched inspections across six states:  Madhya Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Gujarat, and Maharashtra, to check the safety of manufacturing units.

Officials said that strict measures are being taken to ensure such contamination does not happen again.

The WHO has said it will continue to support India’s investigation and help strengthen safeguards to protect public health.