The Karnataka government has directed all enforcement officers to maintain strict vigil over certain cough syrups following reports of child deaths linked to their consumption in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan.
In a circular dated October 5, the Food Safety and Drugs Administration (FSDA) stated that recent incidents in Madhya Pradesh involved deaths following the consumption of Coldrif Syrup (Batch No. SR-13), manufactured by a Tamil Nadu-based pharmaceutical unit. In response, the Tamil Nadu Drugs Control Department has prohibited the purchase, sale, and consumption of the said batch within the state.
Additionally, a few child deaths have been reported in Rajasthan due to the consumption of Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide Syrup IP, manufactured by Kaysons Pharma, Jaipur.
The FSDA has instructed all enforcement officers in Karnataka to keep a strict watch on these specific drugs, batch numbers, and similar combinations from manufacturers. Any stockist, distributor, retailer, or government institution found in possession of such products should collect samples for testing and analysis and initiate necessary action as per the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940.
Amid growing concerns over the quality of cough syrups, the Union Health Ministry on Sunday emphasized the need for all drug manufacturers to comply with the Revised Schedule M regulations. The ministry also warned that strict action would be taken against violators.
To address these issues, the ministry convened a high-level meeting chaired by Union Health Secretary Punya Salila Srivastava, involving representatives from all states and Union territories. The meeting focused on reviewing compliance with drug quality norms and promoting the rational use of cough syrups, especially in pediatric populations.
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