**Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh): Drug Inspectors Ramp Up Crackdown on Toxic Cough Syrups Following Child Deaths**
In the wake of the tragic deaths of 14 children in Chhindwara district—allegedly linked to the consumption of toxic Coldrif cough syrup—drug inspectors across Madhya Pradesh have intensified inspections at medical stores statewide.
The government recently imposed a ban on three cough syrups, all declared Not of Standard Quality (NSQ), triggering a statewide crackdown. Medical stores are now under close scrutiny to prevent further distribution of these harmful products.
**Seizure and Testing of Banned Syrups**
On Tuesday, officials seized 800 bottles of various cough syrups from multiple companies and collected samples for laboratory testing. Of these, 100 bottles were confiscated in Bhopal alone, where two samples have already been sent for detailed analysis.
In addition to Bhopal, NSQ syrups have been seized in several other districts including Damoh, Chhindwara, Alirajpur, and Singrauli.
**Government’s Response**
The ban follows confirmed deaths not only in Chhindwara but also two child fatalities in Betul district, linked to the consumption of adulterated syrups. The three banned syrups are:
– Coldrif syrup (manufactured in Tamil Nadu)
– Relife (containing Ambroxol HCL, Guaiphenesine Sulphate, and Menthol, manufactured in Gujarat)
– Respifresh TR (containing Bromhexine Hydrochloride, Terbutaline Sulphate, Guaiphenesine, and Menthol, manufactured in Gujarat)
A senior officer from the Controller, Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) office at Idgah Hills confirmed that the government has issued standing orders to freeze all suspected NSQ drugs. Companies found producing such substandard medicines are under strict surveillance, with drug inspectors actively visiting medical stores to identify and seize these harmful syrups.
**Inspection Drive in Bhopal**
During the comprehensive inspection drive in Bhopal, drug inspectors visited numerous medical stores to check for stocks of banned or NSQ syrups. Two samples of cough syrup produced by Smart Bay Company — manufactured by Redneox — were collected for testing.
Seized bottles have been clearly labeled as ‘Not for Sale’ to prevent their circulation. Additional samples of other suspicious syrups were also gathered for examination to ensure public safety.
The state government continues to monitor the situation closely and urges citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious medicines.
*[Story by Staff Reporter]*
https://www.freepressjournal.in/bhopal/mp-news-crackdown-on-banned-cough-syrups-800-syrup-bottles-freezed-across-state-100-alone-in-bhopal
