Cough syrup-linked deaths reported in MP and Rajasthan:Are syrups a hidden risk to children? Doctors explain side effects, dose limit, and which age group kids should avoid it

What began as seemingly ordinary seasonal fevers has tragically escalated into a health crisis in Madhya Pradesh’s Chhindwara district, where nine children have died in just over two weeks due to kidney failure. This alarming situation has prompted health officials in Madhya Pradesh and neighbouring Rajasthan to investigate a potential link between these deaths and contaminated cough syrups. A similar two deaths were recently reported in Sikar, Rajasthan, further fueling these concerns. Are cough syrups a hidden risk to child health? The spotlight has turned to common cough syrups and their ingredients, particularly a drug “Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide.” In Rajasthan, two children died after consuming government-supplied cough syrup containing this drug, leading to a ban on that specific batch. These incidents raise a concern among parents for their children. Reports indicate that among the children who died in Chhindwara, several had taken Coldref syrup, and one had taken Nextro syrup. This information intensifies the urgency to understand the potential dangers of these medications, especially for young children.Now the question arises what exactly is “Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide,” and is it truly necessary for children’s health? Dr. Shashank Trivedi, Consultant, Paediatrics and Neonatology, Apollo Spectra Hospital, Kanpur has explained the risks associated with cough syrups. Also- What is Dextromethorphan?​​​​ According to a study published in the National Library of Medicine, Dextromethorphan comes in medicinal category of antitussives. It​​ is used to relieve cough caused by the common cold, the flu, or other conditions. This can give relief but cannot cure the cough or give speedy recovering from coughing. Dextromethorphan will relieve a cough but will not treat the cause of the cough or speed recovery. It works by decreasing activity in the part of the brain that causes coughing. Dextromethorphan is a medicine that quiets your cough. It works by targeting the part of your brain that makes you cough, helping to reduce the urge. It’s often combined with a decongestant to clear up a stuffy nose. However, it’s usually not the right choice for long-term coughs caused by smoking, asthma, or other breathing problems, especially if you’re coughing up a lot of mucus, unless your doctor specifically tells you to use it. Taking dextromethorphan in excess amounts can cause serious side effects or death. What side effects can this medication cause? Dr. Shashank Trivedi explains “Common side effects of the same in children include drowsiness, restlessness, stomach upset, vomiting, confusion, and irregular heartbeat, with serious challenge like seizures or breathing difficulty in sensitive cases. Because of these problems many doctors recommend safer alternative methods for children such as warm fluids, saline nasal drops, steam inhalation, and honey (for children above one year). In short way cough syrups should be totally avoided in young children and any use of the same should be strictly guided by a paediatrician.”
Dextromethorphan may cause some of the potential side effects. Tell your doctor if you see any of these symptoms- If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately. Cough syrups should not be given to children under 6 years of age Dr. Shashank Trivedi says “Cough syrups should never be given to children who are under the age of 6 years, until it is prescribed by a specialised paediatrician. The reason behind the same is that children’ bodies process medicines in a very different way and even a small overdose can have a very serious consequence.” He further added “Medical guidelines clearly states that only children who are older than the age of 6 years are given these medicines in a very careful way under the medical supervision. Most importantly there is not a single safety for all the children.” The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) advises that young children shouldn’t use it at all and- What is the right dose of cough syrup? Dr. Shashank Trivedi says “The right dose depends on various factors such as age, weight, and the specific drug, and that is the reason self-medication or using adult syrup is very risky.” What special precautions should you follow? Home remedies for your child’s cough