Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 21 Jun 1994

Vol. 444 No. 1

Written Answers. - Use of Drug.

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

132 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Health if his attention has been drawn to recent reports in the Pharmaceutical Journal of 16 April 1994, and also in the Sunday Times, about the drug Co-Trimoxazole: the measures if any, he will take to establish the extent of adverse reactions, death or injury from its use here; if he will attempt to dissuade general practitioners from using Co-Trimoxazole or otherwise advise them of the risks known to be involved; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Health (Mr. Howlin)

I am aware of the recent reports referred to concerning the drug Co-Trimoxazole. Co-Trimoxazole has been authorised in Ireland since 1975 with specific indications for use and is available only on prescription. Possible adverse reactions to the drug are well known and documented and there is nothing in the articles referred to which was not already known.

Prescribers of the drug would be familiar with its indications for use and with any likely adverse reactions or contraindications to its use. Information in relation to these matters is included in the product information and data sheets supplied with the drugs and to medical practitioners.

Although the possibility of adverse reactions in rare cases is known, the National Drugs Advisory Board, following the reports referred to, initiated further investigations into the safety of the drug and is continuing to monitor the situation on an ongoing basis. The board, however, is satisfied that there is no cause for concern at this time.