India Morning News
New Delhi: A shocking incident has emerged from Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan where 11 children died after taking generic cough syrup. Following these deaths, Drug Controller department has immediately banned affected medicines and sent samples for lab testing. Several other children are reported to be seriously ill after consuming the syrup.
Rajasthan govt has formed a three member committee to investigate matter. Over 20 batches of the syrup containing Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide 13.5 mg/5 ml have been banned. This medicine was first developed in the 1950s as an alternative to codeine and is mainly used for dry cough. It works by stopping cough signals from reaching the brain, giving relief to patients.
American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and US FDA have warned that children under 4 years should not take this medicine. Risks include breathing problems, excessive sleepiness, dizziness, seizures, and even death. Children aged 2–6 should only take it in very limited amounts under a doctor’s guidance. Anyone over 6 years should also use it only as advised by a doctor.
Advice for Parents
Parents should consult a doctor before giving this syrup, especially if a child has liver, kidney, or other serious health issues. Always check the safety of over-the-counter cough syrups and follow medical advice before giving them to children.
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