Syrups that killed 66 children in Gambia are not sold in India: Govt

After an alert about four syrups was issued by World Health Organization (WHO), Union health ministry has clarified that these syrups were made only for exports and not sold in India.

Issuing a statement, ministry said preliminary investigation revealed that Maiden Pharmaceutical Limited which produced the four syrups in question -- Promethazine Oral Solution BP, Kofexnalin Baby Cough Syrup, MaKoff Baby Cough Syrup and MaGrip n Cold Syrup was licensed by the State Drug Controller for manufacturing these products and export them only to the Gambia.

The government added that samples of the four syrups have been sent for testing to Regional Drug Testing Lab, Chandigarh by CDSCO, the results of which will guide further course of action.

The WHO has issued an alert on four syrups made by Delhi-based Maiden Pharmaceuticals. At least 66 children have died in Gambia from acute kidney injury since July, the WHO said.

The deaths of 66 children from kidney injuries may be linked to four cough and cold syrups made by an Indian drug manufacturer, the World Health Organization (WHO) said on Wednesday.