Vol. 473 No. 1
107 Mr. Calley asked the Minister for Health the risks associated with oral contraceptives; if he will compare such risks to health risks associated with pregnancy; if his attention has been drawn to studies or research in this area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24448/96]
Limerick East): It is known that there is a possibility of thromboembolism associated with the use of all oral contraceptives and that the risk can be higher in patients with predisposing factors. The overall risk associated with oral contraceptives, however, is very small in absolute terms and the risk of venous thromboembolism with the use of any oral contraceptive is substantially less than in pregnancy.
Data from epidemiological studies published last year suggested there may be a slight increase in risk from combined oral contraceptives containing desogestrel or gestodene. The results of these studies, however, have not yet been fully scientifically evaluated. Following an initial examination of the studies by the Committee for Proprietary Medicinal Products of the European Community, on which Ireland is represented by the Irish Medicines Board, the committee decided it was not appropriate to call for the withdrawal of combined oral contraceptives at that time. However, it established an expert group to examine the situation further and this group is expected to report back to the committee early in the new year.
I assure the Deputy that the situation is one which is the subject of ongoing review and monitoring by the Irish Medicines Board in association with the committee for proprietary medicinal products.
