New Delhi: The Union government has issued an order stating that cough medicines can no longer be purchased from pharmacies without a doctor’s prescription. The directive has come into force with immediate effect.
The move follows nationwide concern after 24 children died last year in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan after consuming a cough syrup named ‘Coldrip’, manufactured by Tamil Nadu-based Sresan Pharmaceuticals. Investigations found the presence of the toxic substance diethylene glycol in the syrup.
The ‘Coldrip’ product was subsequently banned. The issue also drew attention after reports of children dying in countries such as Uzbekistan after consuming cough syrups manufactured in India, impacting the country’s reputation.
In its notification, the Union Health Ministry said changes have been made under the Drugs Rules, 1945 by removing the word “syrup” from the Schedule K list. The decision was taken using powers under Sections 12 and 33 of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, after consultation with the Drugs Technical Advisory Board.
The notification has been published in the official Gazette of the Government of India, confirming that the new restriction is effective immediately.
