Toxic Alert: Manipur Bans Two Cough Syrups After Deadly Chemical Found in Samples
The Drugs Control Administration, Directorate of Health Services, Government of Manipur, has issued a public alert warning consumers, retailers, and healthcare providers against the purchase and use of two cough syrup brands found to be adulterated with a highly toxic chemical, diethylene glycol.
According to the official release, the affected products are:
- “Relife” (Ambroxol HCl, Guaiphenesin, Terbutaline Sulphate & Menthol Syrup), Batch No. LSL25160, Exp. Date: 12/2026, manufactured by M/s. Shape Pharma Pvt. Ltd., Gujarat.
- “Resipfresh TR” (Bromhexine Hydrochloride, Terbutaline Sulphate, Guaiphenesin & Menthol Syrup), Batch No. R01GL2523, Exp. Date: 12/2026, manufactured by M/s. Rednex Pharmaceuticals Pvt. Ltd., Gujarat.
Lab reports from the Madhya Pradesh Government Drug Testing Laboratory, Bhopal, confirmed that the syrups were contaminated with diethylene glycol, a toxic industrial solvent known to cause acute poisoning, kidney failure, and even death.
The Drugs Control Department has banned the sale and consumption of these products in Manipur, directing all retailers, distributors, and pharmacies to immediately withdraw the affected batches from shelves and report compliance.
Consumers are urged to check batch details and avoid using these syrups, submitting any stock in possession to authorities for proper disposal. Healthcare providers have been advised to stay alert for symptoms of diethylene glycol poisoning in patients who may have consumed the syrups.
Surveillance has been intensified across medical shops and hospitals in the state to prevent further distribution. The department cautioned that any suspected adverse reactions or cases should be reported promptly for investigation.
For further information or guidance, citizens are encouraged to contact the Manipur Drugs Control Department.