Rajasthan's Health Department Addresses Cough Syrup Controversy
The Rajasthan Health Department clarified that two children's deaths weren't due to state-provided cough syrup, citing misuse without medical advice. An inquiry led to halted syrup distribution, and disciplinary actions were taken against non-compliant health staff. An advisory was issued emphasizing adherence to prescription protocols.
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Officials from the Rajasthan Health Department confirmed on Thursday that the recent deaths of two children in the Bharatpur and Sikar districts were not linked to the state's free medicine scheme's cough syrup. The children consumed the medication at home without any medical advice.
Ravi Prakash Sharma, Public Health Director, emphasized that Dextromethorphan (DXM) wasn't recommended for children and wasn't prescribed by any doctors involved. Health Minister Gajendra Singh had already requested an investigation amid concerns about the syrup's quality.
The Rajasthan Medical Services Corporation Limited suspended the cough syrup's distribution following the order. Additionally, disciplinary actions are being taken against a doctor and pharmacist in Sikar for incorrectly prescribing the syrup. Doctors across the state have been reminded to adhere to prescription protocols, with the public urged to seek medical advice before taking medicines.
(With inputs from agencies.)
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