Toxic Cough Syrup Crisis: India's Pharma Reputation Under Fire

Indian police have launched a criminal investigation into Sresan Pharma, the maker of a cough syrup found to contain dangerously high levels of a toxic chemical, diethylene glycol, following the suspected poisoning deaths of ten children. The incident has ignited global scrutiny of India's pharmaceutical industry, often referred to as the 'pharmacy of the world.'

A sample from the 19 medicines tested after the tragic deaths in Madhya Pradesh revealed diethylene glycol levels in 'Coldrif' exceeded permissible limits, according to the health ministry. Authorities have charged Sresan Pharma, based in Tamil Nadu, and a doctor who prescribed the medication with serious offenses, including culpable homicide not amounting to murder and drug adulteration.

The ministry also stated that regulatory action has been taken against a unit of the company, with the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation recommending cancelation of its manufacturing license. India, a significant global supplier of generic medicines, faces increasing pressure to ensure the safety and quality of its pharmaceutical products following this and previous similar incidents.

(With inputs from agencies.)