LunagisthubWHO Warns of Contaminated Cough Syrups in India: What You Need to Know
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has issued a medical product alert regarding three contaminated cough syrups identified in India. The affected products, manufactured by Sresan Pharmaceutical, Rednex Pharmaceuticals, and Shape Pharma, contain diethylene glycol (DEG), a toxic substance that can cause severe and potentially life-threatening illnesses.
Contaminated Products Identified
The three contaminated cough syrups are :
COLDRIF: Manufactured by Sresan Pharmaceutical
Respifresh TR: Manufactured by Rednex Pharmaceuticals
ReLife: Manufactured by Shape Pharma
Contaminated Products
The contaminated products pose significant risks to patients, particularly children, who may consume them. DEG poisoning can lead to severe symptoms, including:
– Acute kidney injury
– Respiratory distress
– Vomiting
– Abdominal pain
The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) of India has taken immediate action to address the situation. The actions include :
Halting production: An immediate halt to production has been ordered at the implicated manufacturing sites.
Suspending product authorisations :Product authorisations for the contaminated products have been suspended.
Recalling contaminated products :A recall of the contaminated products has been initiated by relevant state authorities.
Precautions and
Recommendations
The WHO encourages National Regulatory Authorities (NRAs) to take precautions to prevent the spread of contaminated products. The recommendations include:
Targeted market surveillance: NRAs should conduct targeted market surveillance, particularly in informal and unregulated supply chains.
Evaluating risks :NRAs should carefully evaluate the risks associated with any oral liquid medicines originating from the same manufacturing sites.
By taking these precautions and actions, we can work together to prevent the spread of contaminated products and protect public health.
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