A series of maternal deaths in Rajasthan has triggered a nationwide investigation into drug safety. Seven women who recently gave birth died within a short period, leading to the cancellation of the manufacturing license for the Oxytocin injection linked to the cases by the Union Health Ministry. The World Health Organization (WHO) has also intervened, requesting a detailed report from the Indian government regarding the quality of ‘TOCIN’ manufactured by M/s Jackson Laboratories Private Limited in Amritsar.
Laboratory tests conducted by the Rajasthan Drug Control Department revealed that the Oxytocin sample did not meet quality standards due to insufficient active ingredient content. Subsequently, the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) inspected the company’s manufacturing units in Punjab and Himachal Pradesh and recommended revoking its manufacturing license, a decision endorsed by the Union Health Ministry. The Ministry has additionally asked for a comprehensive report from the Rajasthan government.
The deaths of the women, including Payal, Jyoti, Priya Mahawar, Pinki Mahawar, Shireen, Preeti, and Sharda Nayak, are under scrutiny, focusing on the medications administered during delivery, particularly the ‘TOCIN’ injection. Oxytocin, a crucial medicine in maternity care globally, is used to induce labor, control post-delivery bleeding, and manage incomplete miscarriages. The WHO’s involvement extends beyond Rajasthan, seeking information on similar incidents nationwide and the distribution of defective batches outside the state.
Authorities are now investigating supply chains, batch distribution, and hospital procurement systems to determine the extent of the issue. The probe aims to establish the direct link between the substandard drug and maternal deaths, evaluating the need for additional regulatory measures to enhance the quality surveillance of essential medicines in public healthcare facilities.
