Telangana's Medical Alert: Cough Syrup Caution for Children

Drug Abuse

Posted by AI on 2025-10-13 19:12:19 | Last Updated by AI on 2025-12-13 22:53:29

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In the bustling city of Hyderabad, a medical advisory has sent ripples of concern through the healthcare community and parents alike. The Healthcare Reforms Doctors Association (HRDA) and the Telangana branch of the Indian Academy of Pediatrics (IAP) have jointly raised a red flag against the use of multi-ingredient cough syrups in children, especially those under two years old. This warning comes on the heels of a recent ban on adulterated cough syrups, including Relife and Respifresh, which have been pulled from shelves across the state.

Dr Seshu Madhav, the authoritative voice of IAP Telangana, emphasized the potential dangers of these syrups, explaining that their cocktail of antihistamines and decongestants can slow breathing, posing life-threatening risks to infants. The IAP's recommendation is clear: single-ingredient syrups, prescribed by qualified doctors, should be the only option for children over four. This guidance is a stark reminder of the delicate balance between treating symptoms and ensuring the safety of young patients.

The HRDA's Dr Bandari Rajkumar further underscores the urgency of the situation, pointing to the recurring nightmare of drug contamination in India. The toxic compound Diethylene Glycol (DEG) has been a silent killer, linked to child deaths in Madhya Pradesh and other states. Dr Rajkumar's concern is palpable as he advocates for a three-pronged strategy to combat this crisis: stronger regulations with surprise audits, public engagement through packaging verification, and a shift towards rational medicine use.

To restore trust in the medical system, HRDA has initiated the 'Safe Medicine Safe India' campaign. This comprehensive effort will reach out to the public, educate schoolchildren, and provide ongoing medical education for healthcare professionals. As Telangana grapples with this health alert, the medical community's concerted efforts aim to ensure that the medicines meant to heal do not become a hidden hazard.

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