Peadar Clohessy
Question:79 Mr. Clohessy asked the Minister for Health if he will make provision for the use in Ireland of the new drug, Beta Serum, now available in the US for the treatment of MS.
Written Answers. - Use of New Drug in MS Treatment.
I have had inquiries made and understand that the drug referred to by the Deputy has only recently been approved for use in the United States and that this approval is the first such approval worldwide. A product authorisation for its use in Ireland would have to be obtained by the company from me on the advice of the National Drugs Advisory Board.
If a doctor in this country wishes to use a drug which has not yet received a product authorisation, he may use it on a "named patient" basis. In such circumstances, the doctor takes full responsibility for the acquisition and administration of the drug to the named patient.