India suspends manufacturing license of QP Pharmachem Ltd after tainted cough syrups caused child deaths in Gambia and Uzbekistan. Third drugmaker to have license suspended due to the scandal. More suspensions possible as regulators inspect other drugmakers.
Uzbekistan is the only country banning Indian cough syrup; WHO warns against its use. Other countries may follow suit.
Recently, India banned 14 fixed dose combination drugs, including some cough syrups, due to safety concerns.
Tainted cough syrups contained toxic diethylene glycol, causing deaths in children under 5 in Gambia and Uzbekistan.
Exported from India, the scandal led to the suspension of three drugmakers’ licenses.
The scandal tarnished India’s reputation as a major exporter of generic drugs, raising safety concerns.
The government investigates the tainted cough syrup issue and works to restore trust in Indian-made drugs.
Restoring India’s status as the “pharmacy of the world” will require time and effort.
