J&K DFCO bans 3 cough syrups over safety concerns

Srinagar, Oct 15: The J&K Drug and Food Control Organisation (DFCO) has banned the sale, distribution, and use of 3 cough syrups after reports revealed they are unsafe for consumption.

The banned syrups—ColdRif Syrup, RespiFresh-TR Syrup, and Relif Syrup—were found to contain toxic levels of diethylene glycol (DEG), a chemical linked to child deaths in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan.

The DFCO has directed all health institutions and pharmaceutical businesses to comply immediately and report any stocks of these products. The order, marked as “most urgent,” emphasises strict adherence to the ban.

Several other states have already prohibited these syrups. The Union Ministry of Health had earlier advised against their use in children under 2 and recommended caution for children under 5.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has also raised concerns over drug safety, warning of potential risks associated with the unregulated distribution of medicines.

Authorities have urged parents and caregivers to avoid administering these cough syrups and report any remaining stocks to local health officials.