Multiple state governments have initiated sales bans and public alerts regarding Coldrif cough syrup after official tests revealed the presence of diethylene glycol (DEG) significantly exceeding permissible limits. Samples examined by state authorities, including a government drug analyst in Chennai, were declared “Not of Standard Quality” due to containing 48.6 percent diethylene glycol, a highly toxic substance. Following these findings, Madhya Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala have suspended the sale and ordered the removal of Coldrif from their markets. Kerala’s ban was implemented as a safety measure, even though preliminary investigations indicated the problematic batch had not been distributed within the state. Additionally, the Telangana Drugs Control Administration issued a ‘public alert – stop use notice’ for the syrup, and media reports have cited suspected deaths in Rajasthan linked to its consumption.
Source: https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/coldrif-row-why-are-states-banning-the-cough-syrup-explained-101759606438401.html