The revelation comes at a time when toxic cough syrups have recently caused fatalities among children. Last month, in Chhindwara, Madhya Pradesh, at least 24 children died after consuming Coldrif Syrup, which was found to contain 48.6% diethylene glycol (DEG), far exceeding the legal limit of 0.1%.<\/p>\n
In October, CDSCO also flagged two other syrups\u2014Respifresh TR and Relife\u2014for high DEG content, although they were not linked to the Chhindwara fatalities.<\/p>\n
Details of Substandard Drugs<\/p>\n
CDSCO declared a total of 112 drug samples as NSQ. These included commonly used medications such as:<\/p>\n
ParacetamolPantoprazoleMultivitamin supplementsTelmisartan (for hypertension)Diclofenac (pain relief)<\/p>\n
Breakdown of testing:<\/p>\n
52 samples were tested in central laboratories60 samples were tested in state laboratories<\/p>\n
NSQ designation indicates that these batches failed quality parameters such as dissolution, weight uniformity, and active ingredient content. Experts warn that consumption of such batches could compromise both efficacy and safety, especially for children, the elderly, and patients with pre-existing conditions.<\/p>\n
Ministry of Health Statement<\/p>\n
The Ministry clarified that these failures are limited to the tested batches only, and there is no immediate concern for other products available in the market.<\/p>\n
\u201cThese failures pertain solely to government-lab tested batches and do not impact any other batch. Identifying and removing NSQ and spurious drugs is a routine, cooperative effort between central and state regulators,\u201d the Ministry said.<\/p>\n
Consumers were urged to purchase medicines only from authorized and reputable pharmacies and report any suspicious drugs immediately to CDSCO or local health authorities.<\/p>\n
Expert Views<\/p>\n
Drug safety expert Dr. Rachit Mehra commented:<\/p>\n
\u201cConsumers should always verify the label and source of any medicine. Purchase drugs only from trusted manufacturers and reputable pharmacies. Consumption of fake or substandard medicines poses serious health risks. Government and industry must continue regular inspections, strict regulatory enforcement, and awareness campaigns.\u201d<\/p>\n
Experts highlight that this incident underscores the importance of drug safety and consumer vigilance.<\/p>\n
Tips for ConsumersAlways check labels and batch numbers.Purchase medicines only from authorized and reputable pharmacies.Exercise extra caution for children and elderly patients.Report suspicious drugs or syrups immediately to CDSCO or local health authorities.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe first step in preventing harm from fake and substandard medicines is awareness and vigilance.\u201d<\/p>\n
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