Uttar Pradesh Bans Coldrif Cough Syrup After 14 Child Deaths

In the wake of 14 child deaths in Madhya Pradesh, the Uttar Pradesh government on Sunday issued an immediate ban on the coldrif cough syrup manufactured by Shreesan Pharmaceutical. Authorities cited severe side effects linked to the medicine as the reason for the preventive action.

The state’s Assistant Commissioner of Drug Administration instructed all drug inspectors to collect samples of the syrup from government and private institutions across Uttar Pradesh. These samples will be sent to a Lucknow laboratory for testing. The order also prohibits the import and export of the cough syrup in all institutions until further notice, with officials emphasizing strict compliance to protect public safety.

Authorities clarified that the ban is a precautionary step to prevent further adverse effects and to monitor the safety of medicines circulating in the state.

The deaths of 14 children in Chhindwara, Madhya Pradesh, after allegedly consuming Coldrif Cough syrup sparked widespread protests. In Bhopal, Congress workers demanded the resignation of Deputy Chief Minister and Health Minister Rajendra Shukla, holding banners reading, “Rajendra Shukla sharam karo, istefaa do” and “Masoom bacche ki maut ke saudagar zimmedari lo.”

Similar protests were held in Jaipur, where Congress and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) workers demanded action against Kaysons Pharma, the manufacturer of the syrup. Party worker Amit Dadhich called for the immediate shutdown of the company, alleging corruption and negligence. “Several children have lost their lives, and others are in serious condition after consuming the syrup… even a doctor fainted after taking it,” he said.

The Madhya Pradesh government had earlier imposed a complete ban on the sale of the cough syrup across the state following the kidney failure-related deaths.
Authorities in both states continue to investigate the incident, urging strict vigilance to prevent further tragedy.