WHO Declares Cough Syrups Linked to Uzbekistan Deaths Substandard

The World Health Organization warned against the use of two Indian cough syrups for children that have been associated with deaths in Uzbekistan.

The alert comes weeks after Uzbekistan alleged that 18 children died after consuming a syrup made by the company.

Banned Drugs | Drugs Banned in India | List of Banned Drugs
Several drugs are either banned or withdrawn after introduction in the market.

‘The WHO said the cough syrups, manufactured by Marion Biotech, were 'substandard' and that the firm had failed to provide guarantees about their safety.’

Tweet it Now

The firm has not yet commented on the alert.

After the deaths were reported in Uzbekistan, India’s Health Ministry suspended production at the company.

This week, the food safety department in Uttar Pradesh, where Marion Biotech is based, also suspended the company’s production license.

WHO Alert on Indian Cough Syrups Blamed for Uzbek Deaths

In the alert issued, the WHO said that an analysis of the two cough syrups -- Ambronol and Dok-1 Max -- by the quality control laboratories of Uzbekistan’s Health Ministry found unacceptable amounts of two contaminants -- "diethylene glycol and/or ethylene glycol", the BBC reported.

'Make in India' Cough Syrups Stir Serious Health Debate
Uzbekistan has claimed that at least 18 children in their country have died after allegedly taking an India-manufactured cough syrup.

Diethylene glycol and ethylene glycol are toxic to humans and could be fatal if consumed.

"Both of these products may have marketing authorizations in other countries in the region. They may also have been distributed, through informal markets, to other countries or regions," the global health body said.

Four India-made Pediatric Cough Syrups Flagged by WHO
Four children’s medicines manufactured in India were alerted by the World Health Organization for being contaminated.

India is known as the ’world’s pharmacy’ as it produces a third of the world’s medicines, meeting much of the medical needs of developing countries.

The country is also home to some of the fastest-growing pharmaceutical companies.

Three Kids Die After Taking Cough Syrup
Three kids have died after consuming cough syrup administered by a mohalla clinic run by the state government in the national capital, revealed sources.

Source-IANS