Tamil Nadu Bans Almant Kid Children’s Cold Medicine After Toxic Chemical Found
The Tamil Nadu Drugs Control Department has imposed an immediate ban on the sale and use of the children’s cold medicine ‘Almant Kid’ after tests revealed the presence of a toxic chemical in the formulation.
A public health alert has been issued, urging anyone who has sold or used the medicine to report immediately to authorities.
Toxic Chemical Detected in Children’s Medicine
The medicine, commonly prescribed for cold, allergy, and asthma-related conditions, contains a combination of Levocetirizine Dihydrochloride and Montelukast Sodium, a formulation manufactured by several pharmaceutical companies.
In this case, a Bihar-based company had marketed the pediatric syrup under the brand name Almant Kid. During quality testing, officials detected the presence of Diethylene Glycol (DEG) - a highly toxic industrial chemical—instead of the permitted solvent Propylene Glycol, which is normally used in liquid medicines.
Serious Health Risks Identified
Diethylene Glycol is typically used in the manufacture of resins, oils, paints, and inks. Medical experts warn that consumption of medicines contaminated with this chemical can lead to:
- Acute kidney failure
- Severe poisoning
- Death, especially in children
Given the seriousness of the risk, authorities acted swiftly to prevent further exposure.
Sales and Distribution Strictly Prohibited
The Drugs Control Department has instructed:
- Retail pharmacies
- Medical stores
- Drug distributors
- Hospitals and clinics
not to sell, stock, or dispense ‘Almant Kid’ under any circumstances. If the medicine has already been sold, stakeholders are required to inform authorities immediately.
Investigation Underway; Public Helpline Issued
Officials confirmed that a detailed investigation is currently in progress. Members of the public can share information or lodge complaints related to the medicine via WhatsApp: 9445865400, according to Health Department sources.
Previous Bans and Growing Concern
Notably, the governments of Telangana and Puducherry had already banned the same medicine earlier.
This incident follows a tragic case reported a few months ago in Madhya Pradesh, where 22 children reportedly died after consuming a cough syrup contaminated with Diethylene Glycol, triggering nationwide concern over drug safety.
