The Indian government has requested the cancellation of the pharmaceutical company Marion Biotech’s license after its cough syrup was linked to the deaths of over 30 people in Uzbekistan. The cough syrup, which contains the opioid painkiller dextromethorphan, was allegedly sold in Uzbekistan without proper registration or labeling. It was also found to have been exported to other countries, including Nepal and Bhutan.
Marion Biotech has denied any wrongdoing, stating that it followed all necessary procedures and regulations while exporting its products. The company has also claimed that it did not sell its cough syrup in Uzbekistan, and that any products found in the country were likely counterfeit.
The Indian government’s move to cancel Marion Biotech’s license comes amidst growing concerns over the safety and efficacy of Indian-made pharmaceuticals. In recent years, several Indian drug manufacturers have faced scrutiny over quality control issues, including the discovery of impurities in common drugs such as ranitidine and metformin.
The Indian government has stated that it is committed to ensuring that Indian-made pharmaceuticals meet international standards for safety and quality. However, the Marion Biotech case highlights the challenges facing regulators in ensuring that pharmaceutical companies comply with these standards, particularly in countries with weaker regulatory frameworks.