New Delhi: In response to the Central government’s advisory on the rational use of cough syrups for children, the Delhi government has directed all government and private hospitals to strictly comply with the guidelines. The move comes after reports of child deaths and hospitalisations allegedly linked to contaminated cough syrup.
Health Minister Issues Compliance Directive
Delhi Health Minister Pankaj Kumar Singh told PTI that medical superintendents, directors, and department heads of all hospitals must ensure strict adherence to the advisory issued by the Union Health Ministry last week. “The advisory aims to prevent unnecessary use of cough syrups among children. All healthcare institutions must implement these guidelines in letter and spirit,” Singh said.
Centre’s Advisory on Cough Syrup Use
The Union government, in its advisory dated October 3, urged states and Union Territories to promote judicious prescribing and dispensing of cough syrups for children. It noted that most acute illnesses in the paediatric age group are self-limiting and resolve without pharmacological intervention.
Age-Specific Recommendations
The advisory specifically states that cough and cold medications should not be prescribed or dispensed to children under two years of age and are generally discouraged for children under five. For older children, their use should be guided by careful clinical evaluation, close monitoring, and strict adherence to correct dosage and duration.
Emphasis on Non-Pharmacological Measures
Non-pharmacological interventions, such as adequate hydration, rest, and supportive care, should be prioritised as the first line of treatment. Additionally, all cough syrup products dispensed must be manufactured under Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) with pharmaceutical-grade excipients, according to PTI reports.
Delhi Government’s Implementation Plan
The Delhi government has instructed district health authorities, medical colleges, and hospitals to circulate the advisory across dispensaries, primary health centres, and private clinics to ensure widespread awareness and compliance.
Centre Warns Manufacturers
The Union Health Ministry reiterated that all drug manufacturers must comply with the Revised Schedule M norms and warned of strict action against violators. A high-level meeting chaired by Union Health Secretary Punya Salila Srivastava reviewed compliance with drug quality norms and promoted rational use of cough syrups, particularly in children.
Background: Child Deaths Linked to Syrups
These directives follow reports of child deaths in Chhindwara, Madhya Pradesh, and Rajasthan, allegedly caused by contaminated cough syrups. Authorities are taking stringent measures to prevent further incidents and ensure safe medical practices for children.
