‘Coldrif’ cough syrup banned in Delhi after lab finds 46% toxic chemical in batch

New Delhi: Two days after reports emerged about a possible ban on the cough and cold syrup Coldrif*, the Delhi government formally prohibited its sale and distribution across the city.

Officials from the Drugs Control Department said the decision came after laboratory tests revealed that a batch of the syrup (Batch No. SR-13) contained 46.28% Diethylene Glycol — a toxic chemical known to be hazardous to human health.

An office order dated October 10 described the product as “Not of Standard Quality,” based on findings from the Drugs Testing Laboratory in Madhya Pradesh.

Following this, all pharmacies, distributors, and retailers were instructed to immediately withdraw the product from circulation. Authorities also urged the public to avoid using the syrup, saying the step was being taken to safeguard public health, TNIE reported.

According to officials, hospitals have been told not to prescribe cough syrups to children under two years old and to refrain from recommending them to those below five. They have also been asked to conduct regular audits of prescriptions to ensure compliance.

Over 20 inspection teams consisting of drug inspectors, police, and members of the local administration have been sent across Delhi to check pharmacies and seize any questionable stock. These teams are expected to submit their findings to the health minister and the chief secretary soon.

The directive reiterated that all stakeholders must stop selling, buying, or distributing the affected batch. Residents were also advised against using it.

Health officials estimated that around 11 pharmaceutical companies in Delhi produce Coldrif. Roughly 6,000 to 7,000 bottles of the 100 ml syrup, priced between ₹50 and ₹60, were reportedly being sold every day.

Authorities suspect that over one lakh bottles may currently be in circulation or storage across the capital.