Parents file complaint against medical college over expired ointment given to newborn

IDUKKI: A complaint has been filed against the pharmacy of Idukki Medical College for giving expired ointment to a newborn baby. The family of Sobin Sunny of Bhoomiyamkulam, alleged that ointment which expired was given to their 21-day-old baby. The baby’s parents have filed a complaint to the hospital superintendent.

The child was brought to the hospital on September 26 following cold and neck allergy. As prescribed by the doctor, an ointment to apply on the allergy and nasal drops were given. It was only after returning home and examining, the family noticed that the ointment had already expired. The medicine, manufactured in June 2024, had a life of two years. Therefore, the family said it had already expired in June 2026.

The family said nothing serious happened as they checked the expiry date. Following the complaint, the hospital superintendent sought a report from the pharmacy staff. However, the staff explained that the required ointment was not in stock at the pharmacy. The hospital authorities said further action would be taken after conducting an investigation and getting the report.