Alan Shatter
Question:269 Mr. Shatter asked the Minister for Health and Children his proposals to make St. John's Wort available without prescription; and if he will make a statement on the position in this regard. [5577/02]
Written Answers. - Medicinal Products.
As the Deputy is aware, herbal medicinal products containing St. John's Wort for oral consump tion are subject to prescription control since 1 January 2000.
The recommendation to classify products containing St. John's Wort as prescription-only was made by the Irish Medicines Board, IMB, primarily because of concerns regarding the promotion of St. John's Wort for the treatment of depression, an indication that, in accordance with medicines law, requires medical supervision. All medicinal products which are licensed in Ireland and throughout the EU for the treatment of depression are only available on prescription.
In addition, the IMB was concerned about the potential interaction between St. John's Wort and other prescription and non-prescription medicines.
The IMB continues to review the scientific data concerning St. John's Wort. To date however there is no information which would indicate that a change in the prescription status would be appropriate. In the interest of public health therefore, I have no plans to change the prescription-only status of this herbal medicinal product.
Question No. 270 answered with Question No. 253.
Question No. 271 answered with Question No. 220.
Question No. 272 answered with Question No. 253.