A serious public health warning has been issued by the Drugs Control Administration (DCA) of Telangana after laboratory tests confirmed that two popular cough syrups were contaminated with Diethylene Glycol (DEG) — a highly toxic chemical known to cause severe poisoning and even death if consumed.
According to official reports released on October 8, 2025, the Drug Testing Laboratory in Bhopal detected the presence of DEG in two brands during routine testing. The chemical is an industrial solvent and is sometimes illegally used as a substitute for glycerin in drug formulations. Even a small dose of DEG can lead to kidney failure, neurological complications, and fatal poisoning.
The contaminated syrups identified are:
Relife Cough Syrup (Ambroxol Hydrochloride, Guaiphenesin, Terbutaline Sulphate & Menthol Syrup)
Manufacturer: M/s. Shape Pharma Pvt. Ltd., Gujarat
Batch No: LSL25160
Expiry Date: 12/2026
Respifresh TR Cough Syrup (Bromhexine Hydrochloride, Terbutaline Sulphate, Guaiphenesin & Menthol Syrup)
Manufacturer: M/s. Rednex Pharmaceuticals Pvt. Ltd., Ahmedabad, Gujarat
Batch No: R01GL2523
Expiry Date: 12/2026
DCA Director General Shahnawaz Qasim, IPS, issued a public alert urging citizens to immediately stop using these cough syrups if they have them in possession and to report them to the nearest Drug Control Authority. The department has also directed all Drugs Inspectors, Assistant Directors, and district-level officers to inform pharmacies, distributors, and hospitals to withdraw and freeze all stocks belonging to the contaminated batches.
Officials have confirmed that strict surveillance is now underway across Telangana to trace and remove any remaining stock from the market. The DCA has warned retailers not to sell or distribute these syrups under any circumstances.
Citizens are advised to check product labels carefully and dispose of the affected batches safely. For further clarification or to report related issues, the public can reach the Telangana DCA through its Toll-Free Number: 1800-599-6969 (available between 10:30 AM and 5:00 PM on working days).
This incident serves as a strong reminder for consumers to stay cautious about over-the-counter medicines and verify product details before use.
This post was last modified on 8 October 2025 5:51 pm
Sobhita Dhulipala is back in the spotlight, and this time it's not her acting but…
The government of India had been very particular about censoring the kind of content that…
Rakul Preet Singh has been making headlines after opening up about what it's really like…
The makers of Ramayana have officially announced that the epic will hit theatres worldwide on…
https://youtu.be/gv2KgZSi_gs?si=TXyroQkMhesMldqL Once a heartthrob for youngsters due to his charming onscreen presence and romantic roles,…
In a significant boost to Andhra Pradesh, a large amount of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI)…