Pediatric cough is a frequent symptom seen in children, usually caused by viral infections that resolve without medication. However, recent incidents in India have revealed a grave risk associated with some cough syrups . In 2025, contaminated cough syrups—particularly those containing toxic industrial chemicals like diethylene glycol —were linked to at least 20 child deaths in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan.
These tragic events have raised serious concerns about drug safety, manufacturing oversight , and the use of cough syrups in young children. Dextromethorphan , a common cough suppressant ingredient, poses additional risks when misused or overdosed, especially in children under six , potentially causing severe side effects including drowsiness, seizures, and respiratory distress . Health authorities now strongly advise against the use of cough syrups in young children without strict…
