India Bans Over-the-Counter Sale of Cough Syrups to Prevent Contamination Deaths
The Indian government has banned the over-the-counter sale of cough syrups, requiring them to be dispensed only by licensed pharmacies. This regulatory amendment to Schedule K of the Drugs Rules, 1945 removes cough syrups from the list of household remedies that could be sold without a prescription.
Strengthening Oversight
The change aims to strengthen oversight and align with modern public health requirements. It comes in response to multiple mass-casualty incidents linked to contaminated cough syrups, both in India and abroad, since 1972. The World Health Organization issued an alert on contaminated syrups in 2022, and a tragedy in Madhya Pradesh occurred in 2025.
Compliance and Impact
Manufacturers, distributors, and retailers have been instructed to adhere to the new regulations. About 90% of audited manufacturers are expected to comply. The ban is intended to prevent further deaths from contaminated products and ensure safer medication practices.
