Killer syrups: Credibility of Indian pharma industry at stake

THE death of at least 20 children in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan, linked to contaminated cough syrups, is much more than a tragedy confined to two states. It is a matter of concern for the entire nation, whose reputation as the ‘pharmacy of the world’ has come under global scrutiny. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has flagged the potential risk of contaminated products being supplied to other countries, particularly via unauthorised channels, and the regulatory gaps in screening for domestically marketed medicines in India. The country’s central drug regulator has informed the WHO that Coldrif and two other cough syrups have been recalled and manufacturers ordered to stop their production. However, the official claim that none of these products were exported may not be enough to control the damage already done.

The spotlight is on cough syrups containing diethylene glycol and ethylene glycol, the toxic compounds that have caused fatalities in recent years. The death of scores of children in Gambia and Uzbekistan in 2022-23 following the consumption of India-made syrups was seen as a wake-up call for the pharma industry. Some steps were initiated for course correction, but it seems that things are now back to square one. The Drugs Controller General of India has urged the drug authorities in all states and union territories to ensure testing of raw materials and finished formulations of pharma products before releasing them in the market. This is a basic drill that has to be carried out throughout the year, not just when some untoward incident happens. The same holds true for inspections at manufacturing facilities.

The onus is on the Supreme Court — as is usually the case these days — to intervene and stem the rot. A petition has sought a court-monitored probe into the manufacture, testing and distribution of contaminated cough syrups, besides orders to initiate a nationwide reform of the drug safety mechanism. The Centre and states should be held accountable for giving short shrift to public health. This recurring malady needs a permanent cure, not short-term remedies.

Editorials