India’s pediatric healthcare community is reeling after at least 20 child deaths in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan, traced to cough syrups contaminated with diethylene glycol (DEG), a deadly solvent causing kidney and brain damage. While DEG toxicity is central to the investigation, medical experts warn that indiscriminate use of dextromethorphan-based antitussive syrups for routine viral coughs may be compounding these risks. Dosing errors, substandard manufacturing, and the presence of unsafe excipients have spotlighted the dangers of common pediatric cough formulations in the country.
Many over-the-counter brands lack regulatory oversight, leaving clinicians and parents vulnerable to silent threats lurking behind familiar prescriptions. As the CDSCO launches a nationwide audit of pediatric products, doctors are urged to reevaluate cough syrup prescriptions, especially in young…
