Telangana issues advisory on rational use of cough syrups in children; here are dos and don’ts

Hyderabad: Telangana Directorate of Public Health and Family Welfare has issued an advisory on the rational use of cough syrups in children.

This follows directions from the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW), Government of India.

The advisory on October 5, 2025, emphasizes patient safety and the responsible prescribing of cough syrups for pediatric populations.

Guidelines from the Health Ministry

According to the DGHS advisory referenced by the Telangana health department, most acute cough illnesses in children are self-limiting and do not require medication.

“Cough and cold medications should not be prescribed or dispensed to children under 2 years. These are generally not recommended for ages below 5 years,” the advisory notes.

For older children, health authorities have urged clinicians to conduct careful clinical evaluation before prescribing any cough syrup, ensuring close supervision, correct dosage, and the shortest effective duration of use.

The advisory further stresses that multiple-drug combinations should be avoided. Parents and caregivers have been urged to adhere strictly to doctors’ prescriptions.

“Non-pharmacological measures such as adequate hydration, rest, and supportive care should be the first-line approach,” the DGHS communication adds.

Quality control and sensitization of medical staff

The Directorate has instructed all healthcare facilities, both government and private, to ensure that only products manufactured under Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and formulated with pharmaceutical-grade excipients are procured and dispensed.

The circular calls for sensitization programs for doctors, pharmacists, and healthcare workers to promote rational use of medicines and prevent misuse in paediatric care.

“Sensitization of prescribers and dispensers across public and private sectors is essential to uphold standards of care,” the advisory states.

Public alert on contaminated Coldrif Syrup batch

In addition to the national advisory, Telangana’s Drug Control Administration (DCA) has issued a press note warning the public against the use of a specific batch of Coldrif Syrup.

Manufactured in May 2025 and expiring in April 2027, the syrup batch number SR-13 was produced by Sresan Pharma, based in Sunguvarchathiram, Kancheepuram District, Tamil Nadu. Laboratory tests reportedly found contamination with Diethylene Glycol (DEG), a toxic substance.

“The public is advised to immediately stop using Coldrif Syrup, Batch No. SR-13. If in possession, they must report it to the local drug control authority,” the press note stated.

Citizens can report cases or possession of the product through the DCA’s toll-free helpline 1800-599-6969.

District authorities to monitor compliance

The Directorate of Public Health has directed all District Medical and Health Officers (DM&HOs) to ensure strict implementation and wide dissemination of the advisory across government and private health establishments, including Primary Health Centres (PHCs), Community Health Centres (CHCs), district hospitals, and medical colleges.

DM&HOs have also been tasked with conducting awareness drives to inform the general public about the risks of misuse of cough syrups and the importance of safe medication practices for children.

Coordination across healthcare institutions

Copies of the advisory have been sent to the Indian Medical Association (IMA), Telangana Hospitals and Nursing Homes Association (THNA), Telangana Super-Specialty Hospital Association, and medical superintendents under the Director of Medical Education (DME) and Commissioner, VVP. The circular has also been shared with the CHFW, MD-NHM, and Secretary, Health, Medical and Family Welfare Department for further coordination and oversight.

In summary:

The Telangana government’s directive aligns with national efforts to ensure rational drug use and prevent health risks in paediatric patients. Parents and healthcare providers are being urged to rely on non-drug interventions for minor coughs and to immediately avoid any unverified or contaminated products.

Helpline: Toll-free number for public reporting – 1800-599-6969