Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 23 May 2012
215 Deputy Tom Fleming asked the Minister for Health if he will add the drug Sativex to the controlled drug schedule to enable it to be available to persons with Multiple Sclerosis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25846/12]
Amharc ar fhreagraCannabis is designated as a Schedule 1 controlled drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1977. Under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1977, the manufacture, production, preparation, sale, supply, distribution and possession of cannabis or cannabis-based medicinal products are unlawful except for the purposes of research. As the law currently stands, it is not possible for cannabis-based medicinal products such as Sativex to be prescribed by a medical practitioner in Ireland.
I am aware that claims have been made in respect of the possible health benefits of cannabis-based medicinal products, such as Sativex, for patients suffering from certain conditions such as Multiple Sclerosis. I am also aware that cannabis-based medicinal products may be legally prescribed in other countries. My Department is currently examining how cannabis-based medicinal products, such as Sativex, may be legally prescribed by medical practitioners and used by patients for the treatment of Multiple Sclerosis in Ireland.
