asked the Minister for Health whether he is aware that a preparation known as depo-provera has been used in this country; if he is aware of research in the US indicating possible side effects of a cancerous nature; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Depo-provera Preparation.
30.
The product referred to has been on the market in this country for over ten years. It is mainly used in the prevention of threatened or habitual abortion.
I am aware that research was undertaken with animals on this and related products in the United States and the results of this research have been considered by the National Drugs Advisory Board. The board accepted that the product could continue to be marketed here subject to specific conditions related to duration of treatment and patient selection.
The studies for the US Food and Drug Administration are on-going and a reassessment of the results obtained is undertaken annually by the National Drugs Advisory Board.