No Syrup Sales Without Doctor's Prescription: Health Ministry

New Delhi: The government has now become strict regarding the cough syrups that are being sold rampantly in India. Recently, in light of the adulteration of cough syrups, their sale without a doctor's prescription, and numerous scams, the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare issued a notification stating that all types of syrups, including cough syrups, cannot be purchased without a doctor's prescription.

Has government banned sale of syrup?

Now, cough syrups will no longer be available in medical stores without a doctor's prescription. A doctor's prescription will be required to purchase these syrups.

The Ministry of Health has amended the rules regarding some drugs included in Schedule K. Under this amendment, the "syrups" has been removed from the list. This new rule will be called the Drugs (Fifth Amendment) Rules, 2026. Following this new rule, strict action will be taken against those selling syrups without a license or prescription. Licenses of such drug sellers will also be revoked. This decision was taken by the government keeping in mind the harm caused by over-the-counter syrups and the safety of children. This decision will be reviewed and monitored after some time.

Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare issues notification which brings into effect that all 'Syrups', including cough syrups will no longer be available over the counter. A prescription by a doctor will be required for the purchase of 'Syrups'. pic.twitter.com/SaszQvHH1C

— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) June 16, 2026

What is the reason of ban?

Recently many cases of children dying from cough syrup were reported in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan, after which the central government has taken a strict decision. A meeting of the Union Health Ministry was held in this matter, in which Health Secretary Punya Salila Srivastava gave strict instructions to the states and said that negligence at any level will not be tolerated.

District pharmaceutical factories in all states of the country will be inspected, and if rules are violated, the factory's license will be revoked. More than 200 health officials from across the country were present at the meeting.