Vol. 455 No. 8
77 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Health the extent of the use of the drug AZT for the treatment of AIDS victims in this country; the number of persons using the drug; and if reports that the drug is both ineffective and harmful have been considered. [12850/95]
Limerick East): AZT has been used worldwide in the treatment of HIV and AIDS infection for a number of years.
The use of AZT is strictly controlled in this country. It is administered to patients at the initiative of a medical consultant only. All patients prescribed the drug are closely monitored. Many studies have been, and continue to be, carried out to ascertain the most appropriate use of the drug and these take account of such matters as its effectiveness and potential side effects. Based on the most up-to-date research available, AZT is judged to be a valuable agent in the treatment of HIV and AIDS infection.
Details of the number of patients being prescribed the drug are not available.
