Children below two years of age should not be given cough syrup even if there is prescription; Drugs Controller issues instructions

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The State Drugs Controller has issued strict instructions to medicine retailers in Kerala not to sell cough syrup to children below two years of age, even if there is a doctor’s prescription. For children above two years, a doctor’s prescription is mandatory. The circular was issued following central government directions after several child deaths linked to cough syrup use were reported in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan.

If cough syrup must be given to children between two and five years old, doctors must clearly specify the dosage and duration. Only medicines from approved manufacturers can be sold. The department also warned that strict action will be taken against those who sell medicines without prescriptions. For children under two, instead of medicine, parents are advised to ensure proper rest and give plenty of water. Traditional remedies like honey mixed with ginger may also be used, as suggested by the central guidelines.

Following reports of child deaths in Madhya Pradesh linked to Coldrif syrup, 170 bottles of the same brand have been collected from Kozhikode, Malappuram, and Kannur for testing. However, it is believed that the problematic SR-13 batch of the syrup was not sold in Kerala. The sale of Coldrif has now been banned in the state.

Samples collected:

1. The Drugs Control Department will monitor all cough syrups sold in the state. Samples of 52 medicines have been collected for testing.

2. Samples from five brands manufactured in Kerala will also be tested to ensure safety. Tests will focus on checking whether the syrups contain excess levels of diethylene glycol.

3. The Union Health Ministry has confirmed that Coldrif contained higher-than-permitted levels of diethylene glycol.

Standards must be followed

The central government has directed all states to ensure the rational use of cough syrup in children. Drug manufacturers must strictly comply with updated quality standards. Any violation will invite strict action. The decision was made during a meeting of Chief Secretaries convened by Union Health Secretary Punya Salila Srivastava.