The Tamil Nadu government has sent a notice to Sresan Pharmaceuticals after 14 children died in Madhya Pradesh from taking its Coldrif cough syrup. Tests showed the syrup contained a toxic chemical, raising serious safety concerns for children. Authorities are investigating and taking strict action against the company.
Toxic Chemical Found in Coldrif Cough Syrup
Health authorities found diethylene glycol (DEG) in Coldrif cough syrup. DEG is a chemical used in industrial products, and even a small amount can be deadly. After the discovery, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu banned the syrup. Last week, the Union Health Ministry advised doctors not to give cough or cold syrups to children under two years old.
About Sresan Pharmaceuticals
Sresan Pharmaceuticals, based in Chennai, makes Coldrif. The company started in 1990 as a private firm and later became a sole proprietorship. It sells cough syrups, protein powders, and herbal child growth products.
Public records show the company’s GST partner is named Ranganathan. An earlier private limited company with the same name had Ranganathan Govindarajan as director, but was removed from the records for failing to comply with rules. The addresses listed on Indiamart, packaging, and government records differ but are all in the same Chennai area.
Investigation and Government Action
Madhya Pradesh police have formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the deaths linked to renal failure from the syrup. Dr Praveen Soni from Chhindwara has been arrested for alleged negligence.
The Tamil Nadu government issued a notice to Sresan asking why its drug licence should not be cancelled. “As a follow-up action, a memo has been issued asking for an explanation as to why the drug licences of Sresan Pharmaceuticals should not be completely cancelled,” said Tamil Nadu Health Minister M Subramanian. The company was already ordered to stop production on October 3.
Next Steps
Authorities are taking strong action to protect children. Investigations are ongoing. Parents are advised not to give cough syrups to young children until further notice. The case highlights the importance of monitoring medicines and following strict safety standards.
