WHO raises global alert after toxic Indian cough syrups linked to child deaths
NEW YORK: The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a global health alert after detecting toxic levels of chemicals in three India-made cough syrups, urging all countries to monitor their supply chains and report any circulation of these products.
According to WHO, the syrups — Coldrif (manufactured by Sresan Pharmaceutical), Respifresh TR (Rednex Pharmaceuticals), and ReLife (Shape Pharma) — were found to contain diethylene glycol (DEG), a poisonous industrial solvent that can cause acute kidney injury, neurological complications, or death if consumed.
Contamination exceeded safety limits
Laboratory tests revealed that the concentration of diethylene glycol in the affected syrups exceeded permissible safety limits by up to 500 times, according to Indian health officials. The contaminated products were reportedly consumed by children under the age of five in Chhindwara district, Madhya Pradesh, resulting in several fatalities.
WHO urges immediate global monitoring
The WHO said it had issued the alert to all member states and advised pharmaceutical authorities and healthcare providers to remain vigilant. It called for the immediate removal of the identified syrups from circulation to prevent further casualties.
“Consumption of these products poses a serious health risk and may lead to fatal poisoning,” the WHO warned in its official statement.
Indian and international response
India’s drug regulatory authorities have confirmed that the tainted syrups were distributed locally but emphasized there was no evidence of export or illegal overseas distribution. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) also confirmed that the products were not imported into the United States.
Investigations are currently underway in India to determine the source of contamination and possible lapses in quality control during production. Authorities are also reviewing whether the manufacturers complied with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and regulatory licensing conditions.
A recurring concern
This incident marks another addition to a series of recent drug safety alerts involving India’s pharmaceutical exports, following similar toxic syrup cases reported in Gambia and Uzbekistan in past years. Experts say the issue underscores the urgent need for stronger pharmaceutical oversight, transparent quality testing, and international cooperation in ensuring drug safety.
The WHO reiterated its commitment to supporting national regulators in strengthening surveillance and recall systems, emphasizing that public health and patient safety must remain top priorities.
Summary
The WHO global alert over toxic India-made cough syrups highlights the critical importance of pharmaceutical quality control and supply chain monitoring. As investigations continue in India, health authorities worldwide are urged to remain alert to prevent further health risks and potential fatalities.
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