Ban on Coldrif
Tamil Nadu Bans Coldrif Cough Syrup: Tamil Nadu has banned the sale of the cough syrup Coldrif from October 1, 2025. The decision comes after reports of 11 child deaths in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan following its consumption. The ban covers all pharmacies and online drug stores across the state.
Static GK fact: The Tamil Nadu Drugs and Cosmetics Rules empower the state government to prohibit unsafe medicines under Section 26 of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940.
Reasons Behind the Ban
Investigations suggest that toxic ingredients or contamination may have caused acute adverse reactions in children. Health authorities have issued advisories to monitor pediatric patients for cough and cold complications. The ban aims to prevent further casualties and ensure public safety.
Static GK Tip: Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan reported child deaths after consumption of unapproved or adulterated cough syrups, prompting nationwide drug safety alerts.
Regulatory Measures
The Tamil Nadu Food and Drug Administration (TN FDA) has asked retailers to immediately withdraw Coldrif stocks. Officials are conducting inspections of medical stores and issuing notices against violations. Parents are advised to consult pediatricians before administering any cough syrup.
Static GK fact: The Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) regulates approval of medicines in India and coordinates with states for recalls and safety alerts.
Health Advisory for Parents
Authorities recommend avoiding over-the-counter cough syrups unless prescribed. Symptoms like breathing difficulty, nausea, and drowsiness in children after syrup consumption should prompt immediate medical attention. Awareness campaigns are ongoing to prevent misuse of cough medications.
Static GK Tip: Cough and cold medications have caused child fatalities in India previously, highlighting the need for stricter pediatric drug safety regulations.
National Implications
The ban in Tamil Nadu may set a precedent for other states to review and regulate pediatric medicines. Experts emphasize stricter quality control, pharmacovigilance, and timely advisories to prevent further tragedies.
Static GK fact: India has previously banned certain paracetamol-based syrups in 2018 after child fatalities, demonstrating the government’s proactive stance in drug safety enforcement.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
Tamil Nadu Bans Coldrif Cough Syrup:
| Topic | Detail |
| State | Tamil Nadu |
| Drug Banned | Coldrif |
| Effective Date | October 1, 2025 |
| Reason | Deaths of 11 children in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan |
| Regulatory Authority | Tamil Nadu Food and Drug Administration (TN FDA) |
| National Body | Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) |
| Advisory | Avoid over-the-counter cough syrups without prescription |
| Symptoms to Watch | Breathing difficulty, nausea, drowsiness |
| Previous Incidents | Paracetamol syrup ban in 2018 |
| Public Safety Focus | Pediatric drug safety and pharmacovigilance |
