Abbott Under Indian Scrutiny Over Alleged Abuse of Codeine-Based Cough Syrup
Indian authorities are scrutinising the supply chain of Abbott Healthcare as part of an investigation into the alleged diversion and abuse of its codeine-based cough syrup, Phensedyl, according to government documents. While Abbott discontinued manufacturing the drug in December 2024, large volumes remain in circulation, raising concerns over misuse and illegal distribution.
Documents reviewed by Reuters show that about 22 million bottles of Phensedyl were supplied to wholesalers and vendors in Uttar Pradesh between April 2024 and March 2025. In November, police seized 30,000 bottles hidden in rice sacks during a raid on a warehouse in Ghaziabad, alleging the drugs were being illegally diverted. Investigators said the quantity of cough syrup sold in the state far exceeded legitimate medical consumption, pointing to a parallel supply chain feeding abuse.
Although Abbott has not been named as an accused, state drug officials inspected its manufacturing plant in Himachal Pradesh in January and obtained records related to the production and distribution of codeine-based syrups. Abbott said it cooperated fully with authorities and reiterated that it does not condone misuse, adding that persistent diversion concerns led the company to stop producing Phensedyl. Police have arrested 11 people so far, and the investigation is continuing.
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