Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 4 April 2017
694. Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the number of Lariam tablets and other anti-malaria drugs issued to Defence Forces personnel for the duration of overseas deployments since 2015, in tabular form. [16640/17]
View answer695. Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the remaining number of Lariam and other anti-malaria drugs that are presently stockpiled to be used for Defence Forces personnel when deployed overseas. [16641/17]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 694 and 695 together.
I am advised by the military authorities that the following table reflects the number of Lariam (Mefloquine), Doxycycline and Malarone tablets issued to Defence Forces personnel for the duration of overseas deployments since 2015 and the amount of anti- malaria drugs in stock at present.
Quantities on anti-malaria drugs issued and in stock since 2015:
|
Drug |
Quantity of anti-malaria drugs issued since 2015 |
Quantity of anti-malaria drugs in stock |
|
Lariam |
2,829 tablets |
158 tablets |
|
Malarone |
1,409 tablets |
0 |
|
Doxycycline (110 mg) |
10,137 capsules |
3,491 capsules |
I am advised by the military authorities that drugs are purchased on a demand basis under the four year framework agreement on the Supply and Pricing of Medicines. This agreement is between the Irish Pharmaceutical Healthcare Association (IPHA) and the HSE.
The Deputy should note that Doxycycline 100mg is a broad spectrum antibiotic and is the treatment of choice for many infections in addition to being an anti-malarial. Both Malarone and Doxycycline require a daily usage while Lariam requires a weekly dosage.
