The Maharashtra Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) has issued an urgent public warning and a Stop Use Notice for Coldrif Syrup (Batch No. SR-13) following reports of multiple child deaths in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan, allegedly linked to its consumption.
According to official reports, several children who had consumed the syrup for cold and cough symptoms developed acute kidney failure and severe toxicity. So far, at least five children in Madhya Pradesh and three in Rajasthan have died, while several others remain in critical condition.
Toxic Contamination Confirmed
Preliminary investigation has revealed that the syrup may have been contaminated with Diethylene Glycol (DEG) — a toxic industrial solvent used in products such as antifreeze, known to be highly poisonous if ingested.
A press note issued by D.R. Gahane, Drug Controller, FDA Maharashtra, confirmed that Coldrif Syrup (Phenylephrine Hydrochloride and Chlorpheniramine Maleate Syrup) of Batch No. SR-13, manufactured by Sresan Pharma, Sunguvarchathiram, Kancheepuram District (Tamil Nadu), tested positive for DEG contamination. The batch was manufactured in May 2025 and had an expiry date of April 2027.
Immediate Recall and Safety Measures
The FDA has directed all license holders, retailers, hospitals, and healthcare professionals to immediately stop the sale, distribution, and use of the affected batch. Individuals in possession of the syrup have been instructed to hand it over to local Drug Control Authorities and avoid administering it under any circumstances.
Consumers can report the availability of the batch through the FDA Maharashtra toll-free helpline 1800-222-365, email ([email protected]), or phone (9892832289).
Joint Action With Tamil Nadu Authorities
FDA Maharashtra is coordinating with the Drug Control Administration of Tamil Nadu, where the manufacturer is based, to trace the distribution network of the contaminated product and prevent further exposure. All Drug Inspectors and Assistant Commissioners across Maharashtra have been instructed to alert pharmacies, wholesalers, and healthcare facilities to isolate existing stocks.
Public Health Advisory
Assuring prompt and strict action, the FDA stated it is taking every measure to recall the contaminated product and safeguard public health.
The public has been urged to exercise utmost caution and avoid the use of Coldrif Syrup until further notice to prevent any additional loss of life.
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