Overview

• Multiple child deaths have been reported in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh after cough syrup use, and official investigations are in progress.
• Some reports allege possible diethylene glycol contamination in the syrups, though the cause has not been confirmed by testing.
• Rajasthan suspended its drug controller four days ago after a concealed report showed widespread test failures, and the state now plans intensive inspections of 65 manufacturers within two days.
• Heavy over‑the‑counter use of cough syrups is tied to weak primary care access and reliance on unqualified RMPs and shopkeepers, particularly in rural and small‑town markets.
• The American Academy of Pediatrics advises against giving cough and cold medicines to children under six without a doctor, and experts caution against antibiotics for viral illnesses.