Coldrif syrup samples sent from Jabalpur found substandard:Pharma office and warehouse sealed after unauthorized stock found; notice issued

In a significant crackdown by the Jabalpur administration after contaminated cough syrup claimed the lives of several children in Chhindwara and Betul, inspected the premises of Kataria Pharmaceutical’s office and warehouse, where stocks of Coldrif syrup and other medicines were stored. Unauthorized stocking of medicines Investigators found that Kataria Pharmaceutical did not have administrative permission to store these medicines at the warehouse. The office and warehouse were sealed, and notices were issued. Twenty-six samples of Coldrif syrup were sent for laboratory testing, which confirmed the presence of diethylene glycol (DEG), a toxic chemical. Lack of proper documentation and refrigeration During inspections, the pharmacy operator presented shop licenses and other documents but failed to provide records related to the warehouse. Large quantities of medicines were being stored without proper refrigeration, violating standard storage norms for temperature-sensitive drugs. Department orders custody and court proceedings Under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940, authorities have taken custody of the stock for further examination. The department also questioned the stockist on why they sold substandard medicines that led to the deaths of children. Kataria Pharmaceutical has been asked to respond to the notice within one day, after which the matter will proceed to court. Cold chain violations intensify concerns The warehouse lacked refrigerators, putting temperature-sensitive medicines at risk of spoilage. Authorities noted that several medicines require strict storage conditions, and improper handling could compromise their efficacy and safety. Single dealer in Mahakoshal region raises suspicions Kataria Pharmaceutical is the sole distributor of Coldrif syrup in the Mahakoshal region. Local medical store owners sourced the syrup from this dealer, raising further suspicion about the supply network. The department is now investigating the entire distribution chain. Toxic chemical confirmed in Jabalpur samples The Coldrif syrup manufactured by Sresan Pharmaceuticals in Tamil Nadu, linked to the deaths of 25 children, has also tested positive for the toxic chemical in samples sent from Jabalpur, confirming the cause of fatalities. Authorities continue to investigate the full scope of negligence, illegal stocking, and the distribution network to hold responsible parties accountable.