At least 30 pharmaceutical manufacturing companies in Madhya Pradesh have come under the scanner of the Madhya Pradesh Food and Drug Administration (MPFDA) following the deaths of several children allegedly caused by toxic cough syrups in Chhindwara and Betul districts.
Regulatory Action and Proposed Inspections
In response to the incident, the MPFDA identified 30 units for detailed inspections to tighten quality checks on oral liquid formulations and other pharmaceutical products. Officials sent a proposal to the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) to conduct joint inspections of these facilities.
“These inspections will focus on manufacturers of oral liquid drugs, including syrups and suspensions, to verify their compliance with safety, testing, and manufacturing standards,” said Dinesh Shrivastava, Controller, MP Food and Drug Administration.
Joint Inspections for Transparency and Accountability
Shrivastava stated, “We have written a letter requesting joint inspections of 30 units in Madhya Pradesh. These inspections will be conducted jointly by drug inspectors from MPFDA and CDSCO to ensure complete transparency and accountability in the process.”
The MPFDA has written to the Drug Controller General of India (DCGI), urging mandatory testing of all oral liquid preparations for Diethylene Glycol (DEG) and Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) to further strengthen safety protocols.
Contaminated Syrups Identified
The MPFDA has collected 243 samples of cough syrups and oral formulations across the state for testing after the recent child deaths. Laboratory tests have already found three products — Coldrif, Respifresh TR, and Re Life — to be substandard.
Stocks Seized to Prevent Further Distribution
Authorities have taken swift action to seize and freeze contaminated products to prevent their circulation. “So far, 1,086 bottles have been frozen to stop further distribution and sale,” an MPFDA official said.
Strengthening Oversight to Prevent Future Incidents
As reported by TOI, the ongoing inspections and testing aim to ensure stricter compliance with drug safety standards. They also seek to prevent the recurrence of such tragedies. Officials emphasized that robust regulatory oversight and mandatory solvent testing are essential. They added that transparent coordination between state and central agencies is vital to safeguarding public health.