Gerry Adams
Ceist:212. Deputy Gerry Adams asked the Minister for Health his Department and the Health Service Executive's policy in respect of the provision of epi-pens; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3040/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraWednesday, 22 January 2014
Ceisteanna (212, 213, 214)
Gerry Adams
Ceist:213. Deputy Gerry Adams asked the Minister for Health if he will order a review of the circumstances and conditions under which epi-pens can be made available by pharmacy without prescription; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3043/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraGerry Adams
Ceist:214. Deputy Gerry Adams asked the Minister for Health if he will introduce legislation, similar to recent legislation enacted in the United States, that allows epi-pens to be stored in schools and other public places in the event of an emergency; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3044/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I propose to take Questions Nos. 212 to 214, inclusive, together.
Adrenaline pens, as injectable medicines, are prescription only under EU law and may only be supplied on foot of a valid prescription. However, there is provision in the current Medicinal Products (Prescription and Control of Supply) Regulations 2003 (as amended) which permits pharmacists, in emergency circumstances, to supply certain prescription only medicines without a prescription. My Department is considering a review of the Medicinal Products (Prescription and Control of Supply) Regulations 2003 (as amended) in light of a request to pilot a study regarding the administration of adrenaline in the treatment of anaphylaxis by trained anaphylaxis first responders. My Department is currently examining the legal basis upon which adrenaline can be administered to a patient where the adrenaline has not been prescribed for the patient by a medical practitioner or other prescriber.