Government Denies Family’s Claim of Cough Syrup Link in Boy’s Death

The Rajasthan government has dismissed allegations that a 5-year-old boy from Sikar died after consuming a cough syrup prescribed by Chirana Community Health Centre (CHC). The child’s family had claimed that the syrup, identified by batch and expiry details, was provided by the CHC. However, an investigation by the Chief Medical Health Officer (CMHO) of Jhunjhunu concluded that the syrup was neither prescribed nor distributed by the CHC.

Details of the Incident

The boy, Nityansh Sharma, visited the Chirana CHC on July 7, 2025, for treatment of itching and fever. He was prescribed other medications, but not the dextromethorphan-based cough syrup. The syrup batch in question was received by the CHC in September, well after the boy’s visit, and had not been distributed to patients. The health department also refuted similar claims regarding another child’s death in Bharatpur, stating that dextromethorphan was not involved in either case.

Government’s Response

In response to the deaths of two children in Sikar and Bharatpur, the Rajasthan health department has suspended a government doctor and a pharmacist for prescribing dextromethorphan syrup to children under four years old. The department has issued new guidelines urging strict adherence to prescription protocols and advising against self-medication. The remaining stock of the syrup has been frozen, and samples have been sent for testing.

Conclusion

The government’s investigation and subsequent actions underscore the importance of adhering to medical guidelines and ensuring the safety of medications, especially for children. While the family’s claims were not substantiated, the incidents have prompted renewed scrutiny of pharmaceutical practices and regulatory oversight in Rajasthan.