Pune FDA Raids Pharma Firm, Seizes Large Stock Of Toxic Cough Syrup
Pune FDA Raids Pharma Firm, Seizes Large Stock Of Toxic Cough Syrup
Pune, October 8, 2025: Following reports of child deaths linked to toxic cough syrups in other states, Maharashtra’s Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has intensified its crackdown on unsafe medicines. Acting swiftly, the FDA conducted a raid in Pune and seized a large stock of cough syrup suspected to contain hazardous levels of Diethylene Glycol (DEG) — a poisonous industrial chemical.
The raid was carried out on the premises of Rednex Pharmaceutical Pvt. Ltd., the manufacturer of the cough syrup ‘RespiFresh TR’. Preliminary suspicions indicate that the syrup could be unsafe for consumption, prompting the authorities to take immediate action.
According to Girish Hukre, Joint Commissioner, FDA, the inspection was initiated following directives from the Central Government. The move comes after tragic incidents in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan, where at least 19 children died after consuming contaminated cough syrups branded as Cordruf and Nestro DS.
In light of these incidents, the Maharashtra FDA has begun a comprehensive inspection of all cough syrup manufacturing units across the state. Samples from medical stores and government hospitals are being collected and sent for laboratory testing to ensure safety compliance.
Hukre clarified that the syrups linked to deaths in other states are not available in Maharashtra, but as a precautionary measure, all samples are being thoroughly tested.
Meanwhile, the Central Government has also issued an advisory warning that no cough syrups should be administered to children below two years of age. The Pune seizure has reignited public concern over drug safety and quality control in the state.
