DCGI Issues Alert on Pholcodine Cough Remedies: Safety Concerns Prompt Warning from Health Authorities

lic health and medication safety, the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) has sounded the alarm on cough and cold remedies containing Pholcodine. A circular issued by DCGI Rajeev Raghuvanshi last week cautioned doctors and patients alike to refrain from using any drug that contains this chemical. The advisory comes in response to safety concerns raised by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and other regulatory bodies, which have subsequently withdrawn or restricted the use of Pholcodine-containing medicines.

The primary reason behind the warning is the potential risk of anaphylactic reactions associated with Pholcodine consumption. Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention. The WHO has specifically alerted healthcare professionals and regulatory authorities about the heightened risk of anaphylactic reactions in individuals who have consumed Pholcodine-containing cough and cold remedies within the last 12 months before undergoing surgical procedures involving general anesthesia with neuromuscular blocking agents (NMBAs)