The World Health Organization (WHO) has requested clarification from the Indian government regarding whether Coldrif cough syrup linked to the deaths of at least 17 children was exported to other countries. The inquiry follows reports that the medicine contained dangerously high levels of diethylene glycol, a toxic compound found at nearly 500 times the permissible limit.
Why It Matters
This incident has raised serious concerns over India’s pharmaceutical safety standards, particularly after previous cases where contaminated Indian-made syrups were linked to child deaths in Gambia and Uzbekistan. WHO’s involvement signals the possibility of global regulatory implications for Indian drug exports, as the country is a major supplier of generic medicines worldwide.
WHO, India’s Health Ministry, and the pharmaceutical manufacturer of Coldrif syrup as well as International health regulators and importing countries are closely watching the case, given the potential for cross-border health risks and reputational damage to India’s pharmaceutical sector.
What’s Next
The WHO stated it will decide whether to issue a Global Medical Products Alert after receiving official confirmation from Indian authorities. Such an alert could trigger global recalls and stricter monitoring of Indian pharmaceutical exports, while India may face increased pressure to enhance drug testing and quality assurance mechanisms.
With information from Reuters.
