Authorities Probe Cough Syrup Link to Child Deaths in India
Authorities in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan are investigating a spate of child deaths linked to cough syrups. Nine children in Chhindwara, Madhya Pradesh, and several in Sikar, Rajasthan, have succumbed to kidney failure. Health departments have issued alerts, and over 1,400 children with flu-like symptoms are being monitored.
Early probes ruled out water contamination and mosquito-borne infections as causes. Authorities suspect a connection to certain cough syrups, namely Coldref and Nextro. The drug regulator found no contamination in the Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide syrup, commonly supplied through government hospitals. However, the Rajasthan Medical Services Corporation has banned 19 batches of the syrup. Companies under scrutiny include Maiden Pharmaceuticals, Marion Biotech, and Kayson Pharma.
The cause of the children's deaths remains under investigation. Authorities urge parents, doctors, and pharmacies to stay vigilant. The ban on specific batches of cough syrup is a precautionary measure while investigations continue.
