Vol. 447 No. 11
82 Mr. Haughey asked the Minister for Health the plans, if any, he has to introduce measures to control the sale of paracetamol; the current controls in place; his views on whether further restrictions would cause undue hardship; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3894/94]
I have no proposals at this time to introduce any changes to the controls which currently exist in relation to the sale of paracetamol.
The current situation is that paracetamol tablets may be sold through non-pharmacy outlets in packs containing not more than 25 tablets or through pharmacies in packs not exceeding 50 tablets. Quantities in excess of this may only be supplied if prescribed by the registered medical practitioner.
In the light of recent concerns relating to the consequences arising from overdoses of paracetamol, the National Drugs Advisory Board has been requested to re-examine the availability of paracetamol and whether any changes to the existing controls are considered necessary.
