Fri Oct 10 01:59:16 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a news article summarizing the provided text:
**Headline: West Bengal Halts Sale of Coldrif Cough Syrup Following Child Deaths in Madhya Pradesh**
**Kolkata, October 10, 2025** – The Bengal Chemists and Druggists Association (BCDA) has issued an immediate directive to all medicine retailers and wholesalers in West Bengal to stop the sale and purchase of Coldrif cough syrup. This decision follows reports of several children’s deaths in Madhya Pradesh allegedly linked to the consumption of the same syrup.
While the affected batch hasn’t been confirmed to be circulating in West Bengal, the BCDA has taken this precautionary measure to ensure public safety. BCDA Secretary Prithwi Basu confirmed that retailers will be further briefed on the advisory at a meeting scheduled for October 11th.
The move comes amidst growing national concerns regarding the safety of over-the-counter cough syrups. The Tamil Nadu-based manufacturer of Coldrif has already been arrested in connection with the Madhya Pradesh deaths. Initial reports indicate the syrup contained chemicals such as propylene glycol, glycerin, and sorbitol. The West Bengal State Drug Control Board has already mandated sourcing these ingredients from approved vendors with certified lab testing and reporting.
Paediatricians are raising further alarms. Dr. Jaydeb Roy, Principal of the Institute of Child Health, stated that internal findings suggest the possible presence of diethylene glycol and ethylene glycol in the syrup, both known to cause acute kidney damage. Dr. Roy cautioned against the indiscriminate use of cough syrups in children, especially infants, and highlighted the dangers of self-medication based on internet searches. He stressed the importance of vigilance and seeking proper medical advice before administering any medication to children.
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