Daijiworld Media Network - Chennai

Chennai, Jan 18: The Tamil Nadu government has imposed an immediate ban on the production, sale, distribution and use of the cough syrup Almond Kit after tests revealed the presence of ethylene glycol, a highly poisonous chemical, state drug authorities confirmed on Sunday.

Laboratory analysis conducted by the Tamil Nadu Drug Control Directorate found that the syrup, manufactured in Bihar, was contaminated with ethylene glycol — a substance widely used in industrial antifreeze and known to cause serious health damage when ingested.

Health officials warned that consumption of the contaminated syrup could result in acute kidney failure, neurological damage, respiratory complications and, in severe cases, death. Following the findings, all pharmacies, medical stores, distributors and healthcare facilities across the state have been ordered to immediately remove the product from circulation.

Suppliers and sellers of the syrup have been directed to inform drug control authorities without delay. The public has been specifically cautioned against using bottles bearing batch number AL24002, and anyone in possession of the product has been asked to seek official guidance for its safe disposal.

To ensure complete compliance, the Drug Control Directorate has stepped up inspections and surveillance across pharmacies and hospitals statewide.
Officials said strict action will be taken against anyone found violating the ban.

For complaints, information or assistance, citizens can contact the Directorate via WhatsApp at 94458 65400.

The ban comes amid heightened national sensitivity over contaminated medicines, following past incidents in which syrups containing ethylene glycol or diethylene glycol led to multiple deaths, particularly among children. Some of those cases involved drugs manufactured within Tamil Nadu, prompting tighter regulatory oversight.

Medical experts reiterate that ethylene glycol has no legitimate use in pharmaceutical products and can be fatal even in small doses, underscoring the need for swift intervention.

Reaffirming its commitment to public safety, the state government urged consumers to remain vigilant while purchasing medicines, carefully verify labels and batch details, and report any suspicious or substandard drugs immediately. Authorities said monitoring mechanisms will continue to be strengthened to prevent a recurrence of such incidents and to ensure only safe, quality-approved medicines reach patients.