Toxic Cough Syrup Deaths Trigger Strict New Drug Testing Mandate

Following the tragic deaths of approximately 20 children due to a contaminated Coldrif cough syrup batch, the Indian government has implemented a rigorous new testing mandate for all pharmaceutical products. The Directorate General of Health Services has issued an urgent advisory to states and Union Territories, demanding stricter protocols for batch testing of both raw materials and finished medicines. This directive emphasizes adherence to critical safety norms under the Drugs Rules and mandates sourcing ingredients exclusively from approved vendors. The move aims to prevent future tragedies and restore public confidence in the nation’s drug safety standards.