Centre Advises on Rational Use of Cough Syrups in Children

On 3rd October 2025, the Union Health Ministry issued an advisory to all States and Union Territories regarding the cautious use of cough syrups in the paediatric population, emphasizing safe prescribing practices and close clinical supervision.

Key Points

Age Restrictions: The Ministry advised that cough and cold medications should not be prescribed or dispensed to children below two years of age, and are generally not recommended for children below five years.
Careful Use in Older Children: For children above five years, any use of cough and cold medicines should follow thorough clinical evaluation, strict adherence to dosing guidelines, and avoidance of multiple drug combinations.
Self-Limiting Illnesses: The Ministry highlighted that most acute cough illnesses in children are self-limiting and often resolve without pharmacological intervention.
Madhya Pradesh Investigation: Following reports linking child deaths to cough syrup consumption, a joint team from NCDC, NIV, and CDSCO conducted site visits and collected various syrup samples in coordination with State authorities.