Authorities in Madhya Pradesh have imposed a complete ban on the sale and distribution of Coldrif cough syrup after laboratory tests confirmed the presence of a poisonous industrial chemical. The decision follows the deaths of seven children in Chhindwara district, who reportedly consumed the medicine before falling critically ill.

Lab Tests Reveal Presence of Diethylene Glycol

Samples of Coldrif were sent for analysis to a government laboratory in Tamil Nadu, where experts detected diethylene glycol (DEG), a highly toxic substance commonly used in industrial applications such as antifreeze and brake fluid. The chemical is not meant for human consumption and can cause severe kidney damage, neurological complications, and death when ingested even in small amounts.

Statewide Ban and Seizure Orders Issued

In response to the test findings, the Madhya Pradesh government has prohibited the sale of Coldrif across the state. Officials have also extended the ban to all pharmaceutical products manufactured by Sresan Pharmaceuticals, the company behind Coldrif. Health authorities have been instructed to immediately seize existing stocks from pharmacies, distributors, and hospitals to prevent further risk to consumers.

Chhindwara Tragedy Sparks Urgent Action

The deaths of seven children in Chhindwara district triggered widespread concern among families and health officials. Reports indicate that all victims had consumed Coldrif syrup before developing symptoms consistent with DEG poisoning, including vomiting, abdominal pain, and loss of consciousness. The incident prompted an urgent investigation into the safety of the product and its manufacturing process.

Government Steps Up Pharmaceutical Oversight

Following the tragedy, state health authorities have intensified inspections at drug manufacturing units and retail outlets to ensure compliance with quality standards. Officials emphasized that strict action will be taken against any company found violating safety norms or producing substandard medicines. The government has also urged citizens to report any suspicious or unlabelled medical products being sold locally.

Public Health Concerns Over Contaminated Medicines

This incident has reignited national concern about pharmaceutical safety and quality control practices within India’s drug manufacturing sector. Experts note that diethylene glycol contamination has been linked to several fatal poisoning cases worldwide over past decades, underscoring the need for rigorous testing protocols and transparent supply chains to protect consumers from unsafe formulations.

The Madhya Pradesh government’s swift response aims to prevent further harm while restoring public confidence in medicine safety standards. Authorities continue to monitor developments as investigations proceed into how such a dangerous chemical entered a product intended for children’s use. The tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the critical importance of stringent quality checks across all stages of pharmaceutical production and distribution.