​As of April 25, 2025, there is no specific news indicating that pre-ban cough syrups can remain on shelves with new safeguards. However, the Indian government has implemented several measures to ensure the quality and safety of cough syrups following past concerns.​

Regulatory Actions and Safeguards

• Mandatory Testing Before Export: Since June 1, 2023, India requires all cough syrup exports to undergo testing at government-approved laboratories. Exporters must obtain a Certificate of Analysis from these labs before shipping their products abroad .​
• Quality Control Measures: The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) has intensified its oversight. Over 8,000 batches of cough syrup have been tested, with only 2–3% failing quality standards. This low failure rate is attributed to effective supply chain monitoring and stringent regulatory processes .
• Enforcement Actions: In response to reports of contaminated cough syrups, the government conducted risk-based analyses at more than 125 companies. As a result, 71 firms received show-cause notices, and 18 were ordered to cease operations .

Implications for Pre-Ban Cough Syrups

While there is no explicit directive regarding the status of pre-ban cough syrups on domestic shelves, the enhanced regulatory framework and mandatory testing protocols aim to prevent the distribution of substandard products. Manufacturers are now required to adhere to stricter quality standards, and any products found to be non-compliant are subject to recalls and other enforcement actions.​

Consumers are advised to remain vigilant and consult healthcare professionals before using any cough syrups, especially if they are from batches produced before the implementation of these new regulations.​

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