Indian health ministry issues advisory on use of cough syrups among kids

4/10/2025 17:18

Following the deaths of children allegedly linked to the consumption of cough syrups in the states of Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan, India's health ministry has sought rational use of cough syrups among kids.



The advisory issued by India's Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) on Friday to all states has reiterated the "judicious prescribing and dispensing" of cough syrups for children.



According to DGHS, most acute cough illnesses in children are self-limiting and resolve without pharmacological intervention.



It underlined that cough and cold medications should not be prescribed or dispensed to children under two years.



The DGHS said non-pharmacological measures, including "adequate hydration and rest," should be the first-line approach for children suffering from cough and cold.



Local media reports said 12 children -- nine in Madhya Pradesh and three in Rajasthan -- have died allegedly after developing complications following the consumption of cough syrups.



In both states, health authorities had issued restrictions on the cough syrups in question and ordered investigations into the deaths.