Three Pharmaceutical Firms Face Action in Raebareli Over Suspicious Codeine Cough Syrup Procurement

According to investigators, Ajay Pharma allegedly procured between five to six lakh bottles of the codeine formulation, while Medical House purchased around 1.5 lakh bottles. Despite the massive quantities recorded, none of the shipments were delivered to the official Raebareli addresses listed on the purchase documents. Officials believe the operators of the two firms—identified as Divakar of Ajay Pharma and Priyanshu of Medical House—were involved in manipulating the supply trail for undisclosed purposes, raising suspicion of diversion into unauthorised channels.

Following the findings, teams from both the police and the Drugs Department initiated swift action. The premises of Ajay Pharma and Medical House have been sealed as part of the investigation, and further scrutiny of records, supply routes and potential accomplices is underway. Authorities indicated that a third firm connected to the chain of procurement is also under review, with additional action expected as the probe progresses.

The case underscores growing concerns about the misuse and illegal circulation of codeine-based formulations, which are classified under regulated narcotic substances in India. Officials say the incident highlights the urgent need for tighter monitoring of pharmaceutical procurement records, distribution networks and compliance standards to prevent diversion and abuse. The ongoing investigation is expected to shed more light on the operational loopholes and could lead to broader regulatory measures in the district.