Over 3,000 Bottles of Codeine Cough Syrup Seized in Gonda; Sales Banned
In a major crackdown in Uttar Pradesh’s Gonda district, the administration and the Drug Department have seized 3,168 bottles of codeine-laced cough syrup. Following the seizure, officials have imposed a ban on the sale of the entire stock and have initiated an investigation into the matter.
According to reports, a pharmaceutical company located in the Kaudiya area of Gonda had placed a large order for cough syrup from Noida. This consignment arrived at the warehouse of a transport company situated in Janaki Nagar, within the district headquarters area. Upon receiving this information, teams from the police and the Drug Department rushed to the spot and commenced an investigation.
Officials stated that a total of 3,168 bottles of cough syrup were found packed across 132 cartons. This syrup contains codeine, a substance commonly used in the treatment of coughs. However, given the potential for the misuse of such medications, their sale and distribution are subject to strict regulatory oversight.
Additional District Magistrate Alok Kumar informed that the Food Safety and Drug Administration Department has sent samples of the medication for testing. A ban has been imposed on the sale of the entire stock pending the completion of the investigation. According to Drug Inspector Sumit Verma, the concerned company has submitted the bills and other relevant documents pertaining to the purchase. Officials are now verifying whether the procurement and supply of the medication were conducted in strict compliance with established regulations. The administration has also requested the company to provide its purchase and sales records for the preceding six months. Officials stated that the primary objective of the investigation is to ascertain why such a large quantity of cough syrup was ordered and to identify the specific regions to which it was intended to be distributed.
Codeine-laced cough syrup is classified as a controlled substance. Health experts emphasize that this medication should be used solely under the guidance of a medical practitioner, as its misuse can pose serious risks to one’s health.
Officials further noted that similar instances involving such medications have been reported in Gonda district in the past as well. In 2025, acting against cases involving the illegal possession and sale of cough syrup, the licenses of three medical stores were revoked. Additionally, the license of a pharmaceutical company was also cancelled. Currently, the administration is conducting a thorough investigation into the entire matter. Further action will be taken once the investigation report is received. Officials stated that if any irregularities are detected, strict measures will be taken against the individuals involved.
