{"id":156502,"date":"2025-10-14T19:02:23","date_gmt":"2025-10-14T13:32:23","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.1mg.com\/articles\/?p=156502"},"modified":"2025-10-16T10:13:34","modified_gmt":"2025-10-16T04:43:34","slug":"cough-syrup-row-what-you-need-to-know-and-do-as-a-parent","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.1mg.com\/articles\/cough-syrup-row-what-you-need-to-know-and-do-as-a-parent\/","title":{"rendered":"Cough Syrup Row: What You Need to Know and Do as a Parent"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"Cough<\/p>\n

As a parent, hearing your child cough can be worrying, especially amid recent reports about cough syrup safety. <\/span>The Union Health Ministry also recently reminded states that most coughs in children are self-limiting and require only supportive care, not multiple syrups or antibiotics [1].<\/span><\/p>\n

Let\u2019s find out more about coughing in children, what is the concern around the cough syrup contamination, and how, as parents, you can manage coughs safely while trusting verified, compliant products.<\/span><\/p>\n

Cough Syrup Contamination: What You Need to Know and Do as a Parent<\/span><\/h2>\n

\"Cough<\/p>\n

Recent tragic incidents involving children in the states of Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh raised concerns over cough syrup safety. While a multidisciplinary team comprising experts continues to probe the exact cause of child deaths reported, experts warn against the irrational use of cough syrup in young children.<\/span><\/p>\n

Usually, pharmaceutical-grade versions of water, propylene glycol, and glycerin are standard solvents used in cough syrups. However, due to factors like poor quality control, cost-cutting measures, the cough syrups are sometimes adulterated or replaced with Ethylene Glycol (EG) or Diethylene Glycol (DEG), both of which are highly toxic even when consumed in small quantities.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

EG and DEG are industrial chemicals commonly used in antifreeze, paints, brake fluids, and plastics, not in medicines. These chemicals, when ingested, break down into toxic compounds, causing severe poisoning, affecting organs such as the kidneys, liver, and nervous system, with children being especially vulnerable.<\/span><\/p>\n

Parent tip:<\/b> Never self-medicate your child. Avoid giving over-the-counter cough syrups to children without a doctor\u2019s advice. Always ensure that you buy medicines from trusted pharmacies.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Find out how Tata 1mg ensures medicine authenticity<\/b><\/a><\/p>\n

Most Coughs in Kids Don\u2019t Need Syrups<\/span><\/h2>\n

\"Cough<\/p>\n

An occasional cough is normal and usually not a cause for concern. This is because cough is a healthy reflex that clears your child\u2019s respiratory tract of mucus, irritants, and infections. Most children will recover from a cough on their own, and using cough syrup usually does not make it go away any faster.<\/span><\/p>\n

The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare convened a high-level meeting under the chairmanship of the Union Health Secretary, Smt. Punya Salila Srivastava, with all States and Union Territories. During the meeting, Dr. Sunita Sharma, Director General of Health Services, reiterated that cough medicines for children should be used only when clearly indicated. She emphasized that \u201ccough medications have minimal benefit in children but carry significant risks,\u201d urging doctors to avoid prescribing when not needed [1].<\/span><\/p>\n

Some cough syrups can have serious side effects, such as slowed breathing, which can be life-threatening, especially in infants and young children [2]. That\u2019s why it\u2019s important to speak to your doctor if your child needs medication, which treatments are safe and recommended, and when it\u2019s best to avoid unnecessary medicine.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ayurveda Expert-Recommended Home Remedies For Kids<\/span><\/h2>\n

\"Cough<\/p>\n

Since most coughs in children are self-limiting. Home remedies often work best in such cases. Dr Deepak Kumar Soni, an Ayurveda expert, explains, as parents, you can:<\/span><\/p>\n

    \n
  1. Keep your child well hydrated.<\/b> Give your child warm fluids to ensure the airways are moist and soothes throat irritation.<\/span><\/li>\n
  2. Give turmeric milk at night<\/b>. Anti inflammatory effects of turmeric can help calm your child\u2019s cough.<\/span><\/li>\n
  3. Try Chyawanprash<\/b> for your kid only if he or she is above 3 years of age. It can help relieve cough and provide overall immunity.<\/span><\/li>\n
  4. Use a humidifier or air purifier.<\/b> This can help moisten the airways and avoid a dry throat.<\/span><\/li>\n
  5. Ensure proper rest. <\/b>This will help your kid recover fast.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

    Explore Air Purifiers here<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

    While some coughs are harmless and can be taken care of with home remedies, it’s always advisable to check with your doctor for evaluation.<\/span><\/p>\n

    Red flags for parents to watch out for:<\/span><\/h3>\n