Mon Oct 06 08:23:10 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary and a news article based on the provided text:

**Summary:**

The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued an urgent advisory to halt the sale and use of Coldrif Syrup (Batch No. SR-13) after reports of child fatalities in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan. The syrup, manufactured by Sresan Pharma in Tamil Nadu, was found to contain the toxic chemical Diethylene Glycol (DEG). While Maharashtra officials claim the affected batch wasn’t distributed in the state, the advisory was issued as a precautionary measure. Other states are taking actions: Madhya Pradesh has banned the syrup, and Rajasthan has suspended its drug controller. The Union Health Ministry has also recommended against prescribing cough and cold medications to children under two years.

**News Article:**

**Toxic Cough Syrup Sparks Nationwide Alert Following Child Deaths**

**Mumbai, October 6, 2025** – A nationwide alert has been issued following reports of multiple child deaths linked to Coldrif Syrup, a common cough medicine. The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has urged all pharmacies, hospitals, and distributors to immediately cease the sale and use of Batch No. SR-13 of the syrup, manufactured by Sresan Pharma in Tamil Nadu.

Laboratory testing revealed the presence of Diethylene Glycol (DEG), a highly toxic chemical found in industrial products like antifreeze, within the affected batch. Ingestion of DEG can lead to kidney failure and death. The syrup was manufactured in May 2025 and is set to expire in April 2027.

“Our state and citizens are safe,” stated FDA Drug Controller D.R. Gahane. “However, for safety, we decided to issue the statement for public interest and safety.” Gahane stated that the authorities were working to trace distributors to remove any stocks from sale.

The incident has triggered a swift response from other states. Madhya Pradesh has issued a complete ban on Coldrif Syrup. Rajasthan has suspended its state drug controller and has halted distribution of all medicines from Kaysons Pharma, while forming an expert committee to investigate.

The Union Health Ministry has also weighed in, recommending that cough and cold medications not be prescribed to children under two years of age. Guidelines have been issued to all states and Union Territories to this effect.

Consumers who possess Coldrif Syrup, Batch No. SR-13, are urged to report it to local drug control authorities immediately. Contact information for reporting includes the toll-free number 1800222365, email jchq.fda-mah@nic.in, or mobile 9892832289.

The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) is expected to take strict action against Sresan Pharma. The Tamil Nadu FDA has been instructed to initiate proceedings against the manufacturer. The incident is sparking renewed calls for stricter quality control measures within the pharmaceutical industry.

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