What is Diethylene Glycol? Toxic Chemicals in Coldrif Cough Syrups

Diethylene Glycol (DEG) is a highly toxic chemical that is sometimes illegally found in adulterated medicines. Recently, it was detected in Coldrif cough syrup, leading to the tragic deaths of around 20 children. DEG can cause severe kidney, liver, and neurological damage even in small amounts. Its presence in medicines highlights serious lapses in pharmaceutical safety and quality control. This article discusses details about the Diethylene Glycol (DEG) and its uses along with the recent tragedy related to it.

What is Diethylene Glycol? 

Diethylene Glycol (DEG) is a clear, colorless, and odorless liquid commonly used as an industrial solvent and antifreeze ingredient. It is not intended for human consumption and is highly toxic when ingested. DEG is sometimes illegally used as a cheaper substitute for glycerin or propylene glycol, ingredients used in medicines, particularly in liquid syrups.

When consumed, even in small quantities, DEG can cause kidney failure, liver damage, nervous system toxicity, and in severe cases, death. It is categorized as a Class 2 toxic chemical, meaning it poses a high risk to human health if mishandled.

Chemical Composition and Uses of Diethylene Glycol

Diethylene Glycol (DEG) is a colorless, slightly viscous liquid with the chemical formula C₄H₁₀O₃, commonly used as an industrial solvent, antifreeze, and plasticizer. While useful in manufacturing, it is highly toxic and unsafe for human consumption.

Uses of Diethylene Glycol (DEG)

Diethylene Glycol (DEG) is primarily used as an industrial solvent and in the production of antifreeze, plastics, and brake fluids. Despite its industrial applications, it is highly toxic if ingested and must never be used in medicines.

Common Uses:

• Industrial solvent for paints, resins, and dyes
• Antifreeze and coolant formulations
• Plasticizer in manufacturing plastics and resins
• Component in brake fluids and lubricants

How Does Diethylene Glycol Contaminate Medicines?

DEG contamination usually occurs when non-pharmaceutical-grade glycerin or propylene glycol, which may contain traces of industrial DEG, is used in medicine manufacturing.

Such contamination can happen due to:

• Poor quality control by manufacturers
• Use of cheap industrial-grade raw materials
• Lack of stringent government inspections
• Negligence in pharmaceutical testing

Recent Tragedy: Death of 20 Children Linked to DEG in 2025

In October 2025, a heartbreaking incident emerged from Tamil Nadu, where 20 children reportedly died after consuming adulterated cough syrup contaminated with Diethylene Glycol (46.28% w/v). The syrup, manufactured in May 2025 by Sresan Pharmaceutical Manufacturer, was found to contain dangerously high levels of this toxic compound.

The deaths raised serious concerns about drug safety standards in India. Following the tragedy, health authorities immediately ordered a recall of the contaminated batch, sealed the manufacturing unit, and launched a criminal investigation into the company’s practices.

Health Effects of Diethylene Glycol Poisoning

The effects of DEG poisoning can appear within 24 to 72 hours of ingestion. If not treated immediately, DEG poisoning can result in irreversible organ damage and high mortality, especially in children.

Common symptoms include:

• Nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain
• Headache and dizziness
• Reduced urine output (sign of kidney failure)
• Breathing difficulty and altered consciousness
• Coma or death in severe cases

Government Response and Drug Safety Measures

After this tragedy, the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) and State Drug Control Departments have intensified inspections across pharmaceutical units.

Steps being taken include:

• Mandatory testing of raw materials before production
• Criminal action against violators under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act
• Public alerts regarding contaminated medicine batches
• Implementation of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) across all small and medium pharmaceutical units

Conclusion

The Diethylene Glycol tragedy of 2025 serves as a grim reminder of the critical importance of pharmaceutical regulation and quality control. Even a single lapse in manufacturing standards can cost innocent lives. Strong enforcement, ethical production, and consumer vigilance are essential to prevent such avoidable tragedies in the future.