Medicinal Products

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 19 June 2012

Tuesday, 19 June 2012

Ceisteanna (481)

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

570 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health the extent, if any, to which research is available regarding the drug Anvirzel, used as an alternative treatment for cancer; if this drug is currently available here or deemed suitable for use within this jurisdiction; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29064/12]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Róisín Shortall)

I understand that Anvirzel is an aqueous extract of the plant Nerium oleander. Anvirzel is not licensed for use in Ireland. The Irish Medicines Board has not approved any clinical trials for Anvirzel and holds no information on its use in the treatment of cancer.