Vol. 401 No. 1
111 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Health if the new drug EPO is available to a person (details supplied) in Dublin 5 who is a patient in Beaumont hospital, Dublin 9, suffering complete renal failure; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
112 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Health if he will outline the availability of the new drug EPO for persons suffering complete renal failure; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
I propose to take Questions Nos. 111 and 112 together.
I understand that the renal unit in Beaumont Hospital is currently performing a clinical trial utilising the drug Erythropoietin (EPO). Before this drug can be placed on the market it will have to complete its clinical trials and be licensed by the National Drugs Advisory Board.
I am sure that the Deputy will understand that the decision to use a new drug in the treatment of patients is a matter for the consultant and hospital concerned, taking into account the treatment needs of individual patients and the funding implications involved.
