rki.news Source: Xinhua

NEW DELHI, October 14 – The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a global alert after identifying three contaminated cough syrups produced in India, warning that these substandard medicines pose serious and potentially life-threatening risks.
According to WHO, the affected products — Coldrif, Respifresh TR, and ReLife — were manufactured by Sresan Pharmaceutical, Rednex Pharmaceuticals, and Shape Pharma. The health agency urged authorities worldwide to remain vigilant and promptly report any detection of these syrups within their markets.
Investigations revealed that the Coldrif syrup, made by Sresan Pharmaceutical in Tamil Nadu, contained over 45 percent diethylene glycol, a toxic industrial solvent known to cause acute kidney failure. Following the findings, Indian regulators revoked the company’s manufacturing licence and ordered its immediate closure.
Local health officials confirmed 24 child deaths in Madhya Pradesh and three in Rajasthan, all reportedly linked to the consumption of the contaminated product. Most victims were children under five, who suffered severe renal complications.
WHO called on healthcare professionals and national regulators to report any adverse reactions or suspected substandard medicines to their respective pharmacovigilance centres. The organization emphasized the urgent need for strict monitoring of pediatric medicines to prevent further tragedies.